Four Horses in a Barnyard c. 18th century

Editor: So, this is Samuel Howitt's "Four Horses in a Barnyard." It's a really detailed print, and I'm struck by how it seems to romanticize rural life. What do you make of it? Curator: Considering the historical context, such scenes served to reinforce existing power structures. Howitt made many animal engravings and paintings that were popular among the British upper class. Editor: Do you mean it was like visual propaganda, idealizing country life for those who probably weren't living it? Curator: Exactly! Prints like this helped shape perceptions of the countryside, often ignoring the realities of labor and social inequality. Editor: That's a perspective I hadn't considered. Thanks for sharing that. Curator: It shows how art can be a powerful tool for shaping public opinion.