Study of the Farnese Hercules, and Two Studies of a Foot 

Editor: Here we have Joseph Highmore’s ink drawing, *Study of the Farnese Hercules, and Two Studies of a Foot*. It’s quite striking, especially the artist’s focus on musculature. What stands out to you? Curator: It's interesting to consider how Highmore engaged with classical ideals through the labor of drawing. The materiality of ink on paper allows for mass production and dissemination of knowledge, democratizing access to classical forms. The means of production reflect a shift from exclusive artistic patronage to a broader art market. Editor: That’s fascinating. I hadn’t thought about the role of drawing in spreading those classical ideals. Curator: Indeed. The work also challenges traditional boundaries between high art and craft by examining labor, materiality, and consumption. Editor: Thank you. It changes how I think about the piece. Curator: It reframes our understanding of artistic processes.