[title not known] 

Curator: Here we have an untitled graphite drawing by John Flaxman, dating from around the late 18th or early 19th century. The support is paper, with dimensions of 198 x 157 mm. Editor: Immediately, I see echoes of sacred spaces—these gothic arches suggest altars or tombs. There's a wistful, memorial quality. Curator: Flaxman was, of course, a renowned sculptor and designer. This drawing offers insight into the material culture that influenced his aesthetic: the Gothic revival, and its labor-intensive carving. Editor: Absolutely. The pointed arches are so evocative of aspiration, and of a spiritual realm. I see the arches as symbols of transition, perhaps even ascension. Curator: And it's all rendered in graphite, a humble material, yet capable of such intricate detail. It emphasizes the process of design and its connection to larger architectural endeavors. Editor: Ultimately, this small drawing contains multitudes. It's more than just a sketch; it's a container for centuries of symbolism. Curator: Indeed, tracing the journey from graphite mine to grand design is a fascinating endeavor.