Hannah More c. 19th century

Curator: This engraving by William Henry Worthington depicts Hannah More, the renowned religious writer and philanthropist. Editor: She looks rather severe, doesn't she? The high ruffled collar and the bonnet...almost a uniform of piety. Curator: Absolutely! More was a key figure in the late 18th and early 19th century movement promoting religious education among the poor. Editor: So, the quill and inkwell on the table aren't just props; they're symbols of her work, her influence. It’s as if Worthington aimed to capture not just her likeness, but her legacy. Curator: Precisely. And the slightly somber tone perhaps hints at the seriousness of her mission. Editor: It makes you wonder about the weight of those good intentions. An interesting, complex portrait. Curator: Indeed, a face that speaks volumes about a life dedicated to... betterment.