Bathsheba Reading David’s Letter 1998

Curator: Before us, we have Leon Kossoff's intaglio print, Bathsheba Reading David’s Letter. Editor: The stark lines and the use of light create such a tense atmosphere. It's as if the weight of the narrative is etched directly into the plate. Curator: Indeed. Kossoff's application of the intaglio technique adds a layer of psychological depth. Consider how the linear marks form the space, evoking both fragility and solidity. It gives the impression of something vulnerable in the open. Editor: And consider the cultural context. The story of Bathsheba is filled with power, desire, and consequence. The artist invites us to consider the role of the female figure in both religious and cultural contexts. Curator: The print's composition, particularly its play of light and shadow, serves to enhance our reading of its intrinsic elements. Editor: Exactly, and by viewing this piece, we become part of a conversation about history, gender, and the gaze. It's a powerful narrative captured with a remarkable economy of line.