Fox Hounds c. 19th century

Editor: This is Charles George Lewis's "Fox Hounds." The stark composition emphasizes the texture of the dogs' fur. What do you make of the interplay between light and shadow here? Curator: Observe how the stark contrast delineates form. The artist uses shadow to define the volume of each head, creating a three-dimensional effect. Consider the line work—delicate hatching builds tonal variation, lending a palpable texture to the fur. How does that direct your eye? Editor: I see how the gradations draw my attention to their focused expressions. Thanks for pointing that out! Curator: Indeed. The artist's manipulation of light and line serves to highlight the subjects' intensity. The very composition is about directing our gaze to the qualities that Lewis wanted to emphasize.