Caricature of a Man 19th-20th century

Curator: This is George Henry's "Caricature of a Man," held at the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: Oh, he looks so forlorn, doesn't he? All hunched over, like he's carrying the weight of the world. Curator: Henry, born in 1858, really captures a sense of introspection here with just a few pencil strokes. I wonder who this man was, what his story might be. Editor: It's interesting how the sketchiness lends itself to that feeling. Like he's fading, or his story is just out of reach. The anonymity adds a layer. Is it caricature, or just a quick, empathetic study? Curator: Perhaps both. The exaggerated nose and brow suggest caricature, but the overall effect is quite tender. He clearly sees something in this man. Editor: It makes you think about the stories we miss, the silent dramas unfolding all around us. Curator: Exactly. Henry invites us to look a little closer, to imagine the inner lives of strangers. A reminder to be present. Editor: Beautifully put. It’s funny how a simple sketch can hold so much quiet power.