The Lovers Surprised 1807

Curator: Editor: So, this is "The Lovers Surprised" by John Flaxman, a pen and ink drawing. It's quite spare, almost like a cartoon. What strikes me is the voyeuristic cherub peeking out. What do you see in this piece? Curator: For me, it’s all about suggestion. Flaxman uses line so economically, yet we feel the lovers' stolen moment and that little cupid's naughty curiosity! It's a game of implications, isn't it? Editor: Absolutely, and it makes you wonder what the story is. Curator: Precisely! Flaxman gives us just enough to ignite our imaginations. I leave with a smile, you? Editor: Definitely. It is like a little snippet of theater on paper.