The Rag and Bone Man c. 1937

Editor: This drawing, titled "The Rag and Bone Man" by A. Neville Lewis, is quite striking. There's a real sense of dignity in his gaze. What do you see in this piece? Curator: The 'rag and bone man' is a potent symbol, isn't it? He represents societal discards, those things we deem worthless. But Lewis's portrayal elevates him. Notice the careful attention to his eyes. They speak of experience, resilience. Does he remind you of a particular character archetype? Editor: Perhaps a kind of modern-day philosopher? Someone who finds value where others don't? Curator: Precisely! He's a reminder that value, like beauty, is often in the eye of the beholder. The image transforms the abject into something worthy of contemplation, wouldn't you agree? Editor: I do. I hadn't considered the symbolism of the profession itself. Curator: Seeing the world through symbols is a powerful way to understand art.