Dimensions: support: 333 x 209 mm
Copyright: CC-BY-NC-ND 4.0 DEED, Photo: Tate
Editor: This drawing, by Prince Hoare, from the Tate Collections, depicts a woman with a pail. It's a delicate sketch; what symbols resonate with you in this image? Curator: The pail speaks of labor, of course, but consider the hat. The wide brim, reminiscent of sun protection, might hint at rural life, but also a specific region or even social class. What emotional weight do you ascribe to the subject's averted gaze? Editor: I hadn't thought about the averted gaze; it adds to a sense of modesty or perhaps weariness. I learned a lot. Curator: And I'm reminded how simple objects can be powerful cultural symbols.