Five Various Figures (from Sketchbook) 1811 - 1893

John William Casilear made this sketch of five figures from a sketchbook, but its exact date is unknown. The figures seem to be depictions of people of different social classes and backgrounds. The sketch depicts men and women with different costumes, but it is unclear what the meaning or symbolism of this juxtaposition is. Made in the US sometime during the 19th century, the figures may represent a commentary on the social structures of the time, with its focus on the lives of ordinary people. Casilear may have been interested in how people from different social classes interacted with each other. Was he attempting to represent a more accurate and inclusive view of society? Was he trying to expose inequalities or simply show people living together? Understanding the social conditions that shaped Casilear's artistic production would help to better understand this image. Scholarly articles, biographies, and primary source documents such as letters and diaries can provide valuable information.