Two Studies of Prehistoric Reindeer 19th-20th century

Editor: So, this is "Two Studies of Prehistoric Reindeer" by Denman Waldo Ross. It's a small print, simple lines depicting reindeer. What stands out to you? Curator: The reductive nature of the printmaking process is key. Ross has chosen a method emphasizing the physical act of carving away material to reveal the image. This highlights the labor and process of creation. Editor: So, it's not just about the reindeer themselves, but also how the image came to be? Curator: Exactly. Consider the social context: What materials were available to Ross? How did his access to resources shape this image of ‘prehistoric’ life? Editor: That's a really interesting way to consider it. I hadn't thought about the connection between materials and representation. Curator: It demonstrates how our understanding of the past is mediated through the materials and processes of the present.