[title not known] by Francis Barlow

[title not known] 

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Dimensions: image: 122 x 186 mm

Copyright: CC-BY-NC-ND 4.0 DEED, Photo: Tate

Curator: What a striking image! This print, of unknown title, is by Francis Barlow, an artist who was born in 1626. Editor: It’s tense. You can practically feel the muscles straining in that bull as it confronts the dog. The etching process really captures the textures. Curator: Barlow was celebrated for his animal illustrations, often commissioned for books. Considering the social context of animal husbandry in the 17th century, this could be a comment on the roles animals played in society. Editor: The dog seems to be actively challenging the bull's dominance, perhaps reflecting power dynamics within rural life. The printmaking itself allows for wider dissemination of such ideas. Curator: It's a fascinating intersection of art, labor, and the natural world. The detail in the rendering of the animals showcases Barlow's skill as a craftsman and observer. Editor: Indeed, the imagery used in prints like this shaped public perception of animals and their place in the social hierarchy. It makes you wonder how these images played out in the context of animal rights. Curator: Absolutely, considering the availability of prints like these, it’s worth considering the role prints played in shaping social thought. Editor: A powerful image that really gets you thinking about both the making and the meaning.

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tate 11 days ago

http://www.tate.org.uk/art/artworks/barlow-title-not-known-t11241

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