Drapery Study with Leg and Sword; verso: Study of Drapery in a Box c. 19th century

Editor: So, this is Edward Burne-Jones' "Drapery Study with Leg and Sword," a small pencil drawing. It feels almost like a fragment of something larger. What do you make of this study? Curator: It's interesting to consider Burne-Jones' fascination with drapery. How does the fall of the fabric, seemingly dictated by the absent body underneath, reflect Victorian ideals of concealing the female form, creating a sense of mystery or even suppressed desire? Editor: That's a compelling thought. The way the fabric clings and flows, it almost becomes a character itself. Curator: Precisely! Consider, too, the sword. What narratives does its inclusion suggest about power, gender roles, and the conflicts inherent in Victorian society? Does it subvert or reinforce these norms? Editor: I hadn’t thought of it that way. It's like the sword adds a layer of complexity, hinting at a story we can only imagine. Curator: Exactly. These studies reveal the political charge behind aesthetic choices, prompting a dialogue about representation and societal expectations. Editor: I see how this seemingly simple sketch opens up a whole world of interpretation. Thanks!