Seated Man Pointing Downwards (recto and verso) n.d.

This drawing of a seated man was made by Thomas Barker, sometime between the late 18th and early 19th century. Barker, born into a family of artists in rural England, specialized in rustic, picturesque scenes, catering to the romanticization of rural life that was popular at the time. The subject here is an everyman, and the figure’s posture and attire suggest a working-class identity. But while there's a certain realism in the portrayal, it's also a carefully constructed image. Consider the subtle power dynamics at play: Barker, as the artist, holds a certain position of authority, choosing to depict this man in a particular way. The gesture of pointing downwards invites us to consider what might be on the ground, unseen, perhaps hinting at the unseen labor that sustains society. Barker’s work makes you consider the social and economic realities of the time, while also prompting us to reflect on our own preconceptions.