Plate XL 18th-19th century

Editor: This is Plate XL, a drawing by Jacques-Francois-Joseph Swebach held at the Harvard Art Museums. It’s pretty busy, a real snapshot of everyday life it seems. What’s your take on this scene? Curator: You know, it feels like a candid moment, doesn't it? Almost like stumbling upon a little play. I’m drawn to the energy – the figures drinking, the horses patiently waiting. What do you make of the implied narrative here? Editor: I suppose it makes me wonder what's going to happen next. Is that worker going to make it through the door? Curator: Exactly! It is almost like a little comedy. And the dog! A curious witness to it all. Swebach really captures something here, doesn't he? Editor: Definitely. There’s so much life crammed into this little scene, it’s fascinating.