Seated Woman in Classical Pose, Study for "Jason Returning to Demand His father's Kingdom" c. 1807

Curator: This is Washington Allston's "Seated Woman in Classical Pose," a preparatory sketch for his painting "Jason Returning to Demand His Father's Kingdom." Editor: Oh, she seems so pensive, almost burdened. The delicate lines give her a fragile beauty, as if she might fade away. Curator: It's interesting to note the economical use of graphite. Allston, born in 1779, was very interested in the materiality of art making, and how the means of production can enhance or detract from narrative. Editor: I wonder what she's thinking? Perhaps about the kingdom and the demands to come. This is such a fleeting moment, isn't it? A whisper of a story. Curator: Indeed. Allston’s exploration of form and composition reveals much about the labour involved in creating history paintings. Editor: I like the quietness of this study—it speaks volumes. Curator: Yes, and this glimpse into Allston's process makes you reconsider the finished work.