Man Speaking (from Sketchbook) 1835 - 1839

Francis William Edmonds made this sketch, titled "Man Speaking", at an unknown date in the 19th century. Edmonds, who was also a banker, offers us a glimpse into the social dynamics of his time through his art. During the 1800s, depictions of men in art were often about portraying authority and intellect. Yet, Edmonds captures what seems like an ordinary moment. The man's posture and hand gestures suggest that he is engaged in a conversation, possibly in a heated debate. The sketch invites us to consider the roles of conversation and oratory in shaping public opinion and social norms. In Edmonds' time, class and gender largely determined who had a voice. This work prompts us to think about who was speaking and who was being listened to. Whose stories were being told, and whose were being silenced? This seemingly simple sketch serves as a reminder of the complexities inherent in communication, representation, and power.