Sheet Music: The Calabrian Brigand c. 19th century

Editor: Here we have an anonymous sheet music cover, titled "The Calabrian Brigand." It's a rather simple print, yet the depiction of the brigand is quite theatrical. What can you tell me about this piece? Curator: Notice the printmaking process and the paper quality. This wasn't meant for long-term preservation, but mass consumption. It speaks to the commodification of romantic narratives. How does the imagery reinforce or challenge ideas of labor and class during its period? Editor: That's interesting. So, the image itself might be less important than how it was produced and consumed? I never considered that. Thanks! Curator: Exactly. The means of production reveals much about the work's intended audience and societal values. I'm glad to share a new perspective.