Dimensions: support: 236 x 374 mm
Copyright: CC-BY-NC-ND 4.0 DEED, Photo: Tate
Editor: This is "The Anglers. Three Men. Verso: Sketch" by Henry William Bunbury. I'm immediately struck by the whimsicality of the figures and the sketch-like quality; it feels so light and airy. What do you find most compelling about this work? Curator: It's delightful, isn't it? Bunbury’s known for these caricatures, almost like visual jokes. Notice how the 'finished' figure contrasts with the ghostly anglers behind him – a little wink at the process of creation itself. Perhaps a comment on the leisure pursuits of the gentry, eh? Editor: I didn't consider that the sketch-like quality might be intentional and a commentary. Thank you! Curator: Exactly! Art's a conversation, love. Now go forth and ponder some more.