Sketch for ‘Treatise on Zodiacal Physiognomy’ 1828

Editor: This is John Varley's "Sketch for ‘Treatise on Zodiacal Physiognomy’" from the Tate Collections. It's fascinating to see these different profiles sketched out. What stands out to you in terms of the composition of this work? Curator: The arrangement of the faces invites a comparative reading. Note the variations in line weight, creating a hierarchy of forms. The subtle gradations in shading suggest an attempt to capture underlying bone structure. Editor: So, the structure here isn't just about the faces themselves, but also how Varley uses line and tone to create a visual order? Curator: Precisely. Consider, too, the inscription to the side; it seems to be part of the study of human form that Varley is invested in. Editor: I see what you mean. Thanks for illuminating the structural elements and Varley's inscription. Curator: My pleasure. Paying attention to structure sharpens our interpretation.