Dogs Chasing a Pig c. 18th century

Curator: This is Samuel Howitt's "Dogs Chasing a Pig," currently held at the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: It's frantic, isn't it? I feel the immediate tension of the chase, even in this static image. Curator: Absolutely. Howitt, who lived from 1756 to 1823, excelled at animal depictions, often capturing the drama of rural life. The print's likely meant to evoke the thrill of the hunt, but it raises questions for me. Who benefits, and at what cost? Editor: It certainly speaks to power dynamics. The pig's vulnerability is palpable, set against the dogs' aggression. There's also something about that rustic fence suggesting confinement, a lack of escape for the pig. Curator: And are we meant to view this simply as sport, or are there broader social implications here regarding class, land ownership, and the rural poor? Editor: It's a fascinating piece, prompting us to consider the various layers of power and vulnerability present in this seemingly simple scene. Curator: Indeed. It’s definitely more than just dogs chasing a pig.