Sketch for ‘The Statue of Duquesne, Dieppe’ c. 1900

Editor: This sketch, "The Statue of Duquesne, Dieppe" by Walter Sickert, captures a public square in muted tones. It feels like a fleeting moment, a memory captured in charcoal. What symbols resonate with you in this piece? Curator: Notice how the statue of Duquesne dominates the composition, a clear symbol of French naval power and historical pride. The surrounding buildings seem to huddle, dwarfed by this figure. Does this suggest a commentary on the individual versus the state? Editor: That's a compelling point. So, the statue isn't just a likeness, but a symbol of national identity. I hadn’t considered the buildings as being in dialogue with the monument, but now I see how their arrangement invites that reading. Curator: Precisely. Sickert uses visual language to explore collective memory. The statue’s stance, the expressions of the figures below – they all contribute to a rich narrative. Editor: I'll certainly view urban landscapes with more consideration of their symbolic weight from now on. Thanks!