I Define the Criminal Characteristics in Physiognomy of Chas Peace c. 1889 - 1890

Editor: This ink drawing, titled *I Define the Criminal Characteristics in Physiognomy of Chas Peace* by Phil May, presents a group of figures with a rather judgmental air. What can you tell me about its social context? Curator: May's work speaks directly to the Victorian obsession with physiognomy, the belief that one's character is visible through physical features. It's a pseudoscientific justification for classism and racism. The inscription itself critiques this practice, wouldn't you agree? Editor: So, is May satirizing the idea that criminality can be determined by appearance? Curator: Precisely. May, through caricature, exposes the absurdity and the dangerous potential for discrimination inherent in physiognomic theories and their role in constructing social hierarchies. It really highlights how scientific "truths" can reinforce power structures. Editor: It's fascinating how art can reflect and critique societal biases at the same time! Curator: Absolutely. And it encourages us to examine similar biases that still operate today.