Heads of Cattle c. 18th century

Editor: This is Samuel Howitt's "Heads of Cattle," from around the late 18th or early 19th century. It's a print featuring various sketches of cattle heads, and I'm struck by the artist's focus on these farm animals. What can you tell me about it? Curator: Howitt, a sporting artist, portrays cattle not merely as livestock, but as subjects worthy of artistic attention. This elevation reflects the growing agricultural societies of the time. Consider how such images normalized and perhaps even romanticized animal husbandry. Editor: So, this image speaks to the social importance of agriculture at the time? Curator: Precisely. It subtly promotes the value of farming and animal breeding within society, influencing public perception through art. What do you make of the composition? Editor: I see. So it’s both art and propaganda for the societal values of the time. It has given me a new perspective of how art interacts with social context.