Wood Sprite; verso: Study of a Leg, for "Hill Fairies" c. 19th century

Editor: This is Edward Burne-Jones' sketch, "Wood Sprite," its materials are humble--simply pencil on paper. It feels like a study, but the cross-hatching gives it depth. What stands out to you? Curator: I am fascinated by the labor evident in this drawing. Burne-Jones uses the pencil almost sculpturally, building form through dense, repetitive strokes. Consider the socio-economic implications: how does this intensive hand-work relate to the figure's idealized form and the market for such refined drawings? Editor: So, it's not just about the figure itself, but the process of creating it? Curator: Precisely. The drawing is a product of specific labor and a reflection of the artist’s training, class, and the art market of his time. Editor: I never thought about it that way, that's a great point!