The Procession of Elders 1807

Editor: So, this is John Flaxman's "The Procession of Elders." It's a delicate line drawing, and I'm struck by its simplicity. What do you make of Flaxman's choice of this medium, and how it conveys the narrative? Curator: I see Flaxman deliberately using line drawing to highlight the process. The minimal use of materials focuses our attention on the act of creation itself, and the social context of printmaking and distribution. Consider how the clean lines democratize the image, making it reproducible and accessible. How might this impact its original audience and its message? Editor: That’s interesting! So, the choice of a simple medium made it more accessible? I hadn't thought of that. Thanks! Curator: Precisely. By emphasizing the material production, Flaxman perhaps aimed for a broader engagement with his art, connecting high art with accessible craft.