The Pride of the Village Possibly 1839

Editor: Here we have John Callcott Horsley's, *The Pride of the Village* from the Tate Collection. It depicts an interior scene, and the texture of the fabrics is quite striking. What can you tell me about the materiality of this piece? Curator: Well, consider the wool and linen in the clothing, likely homespun. The production of these textiles would have been a significant labor investment, a central aspect of village life. How does the artist use these details to convey social status? Editor: I see, so the quality and source of these materials would reflect the family's position within their community? Curator: Precisely. It’s a snapshot of Victorian social fabric, woven from the very threads of their existence. It gives the viewer a tangible glimpse into their daily lives. Editor: That's fascinating; I hadn't considered how much the materials themselves could tell the story. Curator: It is an important consideration. Looking closer, we begin to see the subtle ways that the artist communicates their society.