French Beggars 

Editor: This is John Sell Cotman’s print, "French Beggars." It's quite small, just a few inches, and etched with such fine lines. There’s a solemn feeling here… What visual symbols resonate with you in this work? Curator: The beggars' attire is striking. The large hat and simple tunic, while indicative of poverty, also carry echoes of theatrical costume, perhaps alluding to societal performance. Does the dog evoke similar reflections on vulnerability or loyalty? Editor: That's interesting. I hadn't considered the theatrical aspect before. The dog seems almost like another member of the troupe. I'll definitely look at this print differently now. Thanks! Curator: It’s a poignant reminder of how symbols can both mask and reveal the human condition across time.