When a score of ewes had brought in a remarkable profit. 1911

Editor: This is "When a score of ewes had brought in a remarkable profit," created in 1911 by Arthur Rackham. It's a mixed-media piece, with watercolor and coloured pencil, and it has such a bustling, narrative feel to it. It feels very much of its time. What do you see when you look at this work? Curator: Well, first off, isn’t it wonderful? It smells of the countryside after a mild rain. For me, Rackham's illustration dances with a joyful boisterousness. You've got this central figure, clearly a bit tipsy from celebrating that profitable score of ewes. It's a scene ripe with comedic timing – like a still from a play. Editor: A play… I like that. It does have a very staged feeling about it. Curator: Absolutely. And note how Rackham uses the watercolor washes to create atmosphere and light, but the coloured pencil adds texture and definition. It’s that perfect blend of loose suggestion and specific detail. And you get this distinct romantic feel. Does it not stir something deep in your heart? That yearn for a pastoral fantasy long since past? Editor: I suppose, but all that 'pastoral fantasy' feels very constructed, you know? Almost artificial. Curator: Of course, it's constructed. But isn't all art? The genius is in how convincingly he sells us this idealized view. What's real, anyway? And perhaps more importantly: What is true? Rackham captures something of that old English spirit, a yearning for simpler times – whether those times truly existed or not! He wants to lift you into something you didn't believe in just a moment prior, and if you trust, you fly! Editor: True, and you can't deny his skill in crafting that vision. It really invites you in for a closer look. Curator: Exactly. It whispers secrets to those willing to listen!