Parson Wells and his Wife c. 19th century

Editor: This is Joseph Andrews' drawing, "Parson Wells and his Wife." It's a lovely, delicate sketch. What strikes you about the material qualities of this piece? Curator: The linear quality invites us to consider the costuming. What materials would have been available, and how would the garments have been made? We can also consider the cost of the paper and drawing tools themselves. These speak volumes about social status. Editor: That's fascinating! I hadn't thought about the material implications of the clothing in that way. Curator: It encourages us to understand the economic realities shaping their portrayal. Food for thought!