Five studies of Peddlers 1791 - 1795

Curator: Okay, let's dive into George Morland's "Five Studies of Peddlers," created between 1791 and 1795. It's a captivating genre scene rendered in coloured pencil and pencil, offering a glimpse into everyday life of that time. What’s your first take? Editor: Well, initially, I'm struck by how delicate it feels, almost dreamlike. The soft colours and loose lines create this really gentle atmosphere. I imagine it's like eavesdropping on a forgotten market day. Curator: I agree, there's definitely an intimacy to it. Notice how Morland uses line and subtle colour washes to differentiate each figure's emotion. The woman struggling to lift that basket laden over her head, contrasted with the proud presentation of the fish vendor… Editor: Precisely. It is like he has frozen gestures in time. The fishmonger is clearly trying to woo the fish buyer with the day's catch. What would Levi-Strauss make of the culinary transaction! Jokes aside, the composition directs our sightline to the emotionality of transactions... Curator: Good observation! And consider the historical context – Morland was known for his depictions of rural life, often romanticising it. There's a sense of nostalgia at play, even in his own time, reflecting the shift from agrarian to more industrial society. Editor: I see that. I think the slight sketchiness enhances that wistful quality. Each figure stands alone on the canvas with limited context. There are plenty of possible readings to this depending on your cultural bias. Is there some criticism here as well as idealization? Curator: Potentially. He doesn't shy away from showing the weariness on some of the faces either. It’s not all rosy cheeks and sunshine. There’s a certain truth in that ambiguity, don't you think? Perhaps not quite Hogarth, but pointing in that direction… Editor: Definitely. It brings a lovely, unexpected tension. It's like the picture is asking, "What is work? And what is its price, both literally and figuratively?” A beautiful dance of observation and quiet contemplation. I think this has legs for a contemporary viewer, maybe even more now!