Portrait of Joan Tozzer c. 20th century

Editor: This is Mariette Lydis's sketch, "Portrait of Joan Tozzer." I'm struck by the subject's gaze, somehow both innocent and knowing. What do you see in this piece? Curator: The headband, the slightly averted gaze--Lydis captures a moment of transition. Headbands in portraits often symbolize youthful beauty, but look closer. Editor: What do you mean? Curator: The slightly melancholy expression suggests a budding awareness, almost a premonition. This portrait holds a wealth of cultural memory, a glimpse into the sitter’s future. Editor: So, it's about the shift from childhood to adulthood? I hadn’t considered that! Curator: Precisely. Symbols can be quiet, yet deeply resonant. Editor: Thanks for pointing that out! It makes me appreciate the drawing even more.