Head of a Man 19th-20th century

Editor: Here we have "Head of a Man," attributed to Thomas Cowperthwait Eakins, residing at the Harvard Art Museums. It's a small drawing, and the subject's gaze is incredibly intense. What stands out to you? Curator: Well, the intensity, as you call it, probably has to do with the way Eakins used images of the male body to convey ideas of strength, intellect, and even a certain kind of American masculinity. How might this drawing challenge or reinforce existing social hierarchies? Editor: I hadn't considered the social implications. I was focused on the artistic skill. Curator: Exactly, and it's through that artistic skill that Eakins engaged with—or even challenged—the artistic institutions and social norms of his time. The public role of art is really fascinating. Editor: I'll definitely look at portraiture differently now, considering the power dynamics at play. Thanks! Curator: You're welcome! Thinking about how art reflects society makes looking at art so much more interesting.