Procession of Figures 18th/19th century

Editor: So, here we have "Procession of Figures," an ink drawing, likely from the 18th or 19th century, currently residing at The Art Institute of Chicago, and attributed to Masaccio. It feels almost dreamlike, the figures fading into the toned paper. What catches your eye about it? Curator: Oh, this is intriguing! First off, forget the strict attribution. "Attributed to" often means "we haven't a clue, but it’s in the style of". Instead, I want you to really *look*. The figures *are* dreamlike, aren’t they? Like a half-remembered procession glimpsed through a veil. It makes me think about echoes of the past. Editor: Echoes in what sense? Curator: In the sense that we’re looking at a study of figures that have perhaps been studied before, copied over, or dreamed of. The drawing looks both hesitant and confident, wouldn’t you agree? There's an immediate capturing of form, but without that obsession for perfect classical articulation. It’s searching rather than stating. And, I think I love it for precisely that reason. What do you make of their robes? Editor: They give them an almost monastic or spiritual air, don’t they? Is that intentional? Curator: Maybe, but maybe not! That’s where it gets fun, eh? Their robes certainly point towards ritual and perhaps religious orders, but without a setting we can never be sure. What matters to *me* is how the robes provide that amazing contrast to those bare feet...grounding these lofty figures into something deeply human. The paper looks stained with water and use… doesn't that also speak volumes? Editor: It does. This reminds me that a work’s story isn't always about grand statements, it’s also in the imperfections and the search. Thanks! Curator: Indeed. And remember art is ultimately felt, it connects with your humanity and experiences first. It can also get muddled, though, so trust yourself but never believe a word *I* say either, ok?