Isis Instructing the Egyptians 1809

Editor: Here we have Carl Russ’s etching and drypoint, "Isis Instructing the Egyptians" from 1809. It's brimming with figures, a very classically inspired scene. I am intrigued by how, despite the very academic style, there's something almost dreamlike in the hazy way the background fades. How do you read this piece? Curator: Dreamlike, yes! I like that, perhaps that is how long lost histories reach us. The academic style sought to codify beauty and meaning through rigorous form, didn't it? Look how Russ anchors his figures in classical poses and themes – Isis, the goddess, sharing knowledge… or is it secrets? And see how it’s not just about clear lines. He uses shadow and light like whispers. A little like memory itself works, don’t you think? Fragmented, incomplete, relying on echoes and impressions. It gives a kind of emotional charge to what could have been just a static, historical tableau. Editor: You're right; the shading does create depth. But I confess the subject matter felt a little remote to me at first. Why Isis? Why this particular moment? Curator: The early 19th century saw a big resurgence of interest in the classical world and Egypt, a romantic fascination really. The secrets and the mysteries! But beyond the allure, Isis embodied potent ideals: motherhood, wisdom, magical power. Presenting Isis 'instructing’ allows Russ to make a statement about the power of knowledge, the role of women, and maybe even comment on the political climate. It’s rarely just ‘history’ isn’t it, it's also usually an appeal to our own present moment. Don’t you find it interesting that an ancient subject is always re-imagined for a modern eye? Editor: Definitely something to ponder. It sounds like there's so much layered into even one scene that you could spend hours trying to peel back. Curator: Exactly! Which makes it so wonderfully alive, don't you think? Like conversations across centuries. Editor: Well, it gives me plenty to think about regarding how we reimagine the past! Curator: Wonderful, that's the best a work of art can do.