Remus jumping over the Walls 

Curator: What a wonderfully quirky piece! This pen and ink drawing titled "Remus jumping over the Walls" by John Leech presents a humorous take on a foundational myth. Editor: Yes, immediately I'm struck by the dynamism. That central figure, Remus, suspended mid-air, creates such a powerful diagonal that cuts across the rather static composition. It feels like a playful subversion. Curator: Exactly! Leech, known for his contributions to "Punch" magazine, uses this historical subject to inject a dose of satire into Victorian society's obsession with classical ideals. Notice how the guard on the left, with his exaggerated physique and rather comical stance, undermines any sense of grand historical narrative. It's a commentary on power, privilege, and the absurdity of tradition. Editor: The stark contrast achieved with the penwork is fascinating too. Thin, nervous lines give way to heavier, more emphatic strokes defining form and movement. The background, indicated with minimal detail, serves mainly to push forward that figure in flight. Also, I read an instability in the composition...an intentional fragility through all the small broken lines? Curator: Absolutely. The sketchy quality lends itself to accessibility and readership. It's not high art; it's popular art. This drawing appeared as a comic illustration intended for a wider audience accustomed to visual satire and commentary, who found delight in the humorous juxtaposition of the ancient and contemporary, of historical grandeur and everyday life. Editor: And note that he leaps over just the beginnings of the structure - as if, to add insult to injury, not only disobeying, but not even concerned with seriously engaging the challenge the wall could present! The symbolism of a man clearing the first tier of something which should ultimately imprison him is very visually potent here. Curator: Indeed! So, ultimately, Leech uses the myth to mock pomposity and invite viewers to laugh at authority. The artist encourages social commentary using easily accesible materials and visual shorthand. Editor: This piece provides a great example of art's potential in even just stark black and white...through a deft play with form, and visual tension. I think this approach really encourages audiences to look deeper at line, form, and shape.