Sketch for ‘Robinson Crusoe’: A Man with a Boat. Verso: Sketch of a Cowslip 

Curator: This is Thomas Stothard's sketch for 'Robinson Crusoe’: A Man with a Boat', held in the Tate Collections. Although undated, Stothard lived from 1755 to 1834. Editor: It looks hurried, almost frantic, but the line work is very expressive. The figures, especially the dogs, seem to be caught in a moment of quiet desperation. Curator: Stothard was a prolific illustrator, and his work on 'Robinson Crusoe' was hugely popular, shaping the visual culture surrounding Defoe's novel. Editor: Notice how the image is dominated by the standing figures and the stark lines forming the boat. The visual emphasis makes it feel very immediate, drawing you into Crusoe's world. The dogs convey something more feral than domesticated! Curator: Indeed! The imagery of Crusoe connects with themes of isolation and resilience. The illustrations circulated widely, impacting ideas about colonialism and self-reliance. Editor: The use of line, while simple, really brings out the raw, emotional core of Crusoe's struggle—a story of endurance shaped by powerful symbols. Curator: The sketch provides a fascinating glimpse into the visual history of a literary icon. Editor: Absolutely. A potent reminder of how images shape our understanding of stories and their cultural impact.