Horses in a Stable c. 19th century

Editor: This drawing, "Horses in a Stable" by Ernest Meissonier, feels so immediate, like a fleeting impression. What stands out to you? Curator: I'm drawn to the artist's hand, the visible labor in each pencil stroke. Consider the social context: Meissonier, celebrated by the elite, here depicts working animals. How does the seemingly simple act of drawing them connect to broader systems of power and production? Editor: That's fascinating! It makes me think about the work horses did and how the artist’s work fits into that. Curator: Precisely. The materiality of the drawing itself—pencil on paper—speaks to a specific moment in the history of art production and consumption. We should consider the societal impact of the piece. Editor: I didn't think about it that way. Thanks, I’ll definitely think about process more deeply from now on.