[title not known] 

Curator: This evocative sketch is by John Flaxman, born in 1755. Its exact date is unknown, but it resides in the Tate Collections. Editor: It’s intriguing—almost ghostly with those pale washes. The composition, though fragmented, suggests a dramatic narrative. Curator: Flaxman was known for his neoclassical style, but here, we see the raw process. This sheet, just 70 by 130 mm, probably functioned as a working material. Editor: The ethereal quality contrasts with the apparent precision of line. Are these figures drawn from literature, or his imagination? Curator: Knowing Flaxman's engagement with producing designs for Wedgwood pottery, and his deep connections to abolitionist circles, it's tempting to look for those themes here. Editor: The ambiguity is, perhaps, its strength. It invites speculation, much like a half-remembered dream. Curator: Indeed. This humble sketch offers a powerful glimpse into an artist’s world, revealing his processes. Editor: Yes, seeing that initial spark of creativity—it's captivating.