Hero and Leander c. 1875

Editor: This is Henry Hugh Armstead’s "Hero and Leander," a marble relief sculpture in the Tate. It's a heartbreaking scene; the carving is incredible. What stands out to you? Curator: Well, let’s consider the material. Marble, historically associated with wealth and power. This relief, depicting tragic lovers, challenges traditional notions of art serving solely the elite. How does the act of carving such a delicate scene in a hard, unforgiving medium influence our understanding? Editor: It makes it feel more permanent, a lasting monument to their love and loss, perhaps? Curator: Exactly. And who was able to afford such permanence? What does the choice of this myth say about the intended audience and Armstead’s own social commentary? Editor: It’s fascinating to think about art as a social object, not just an aesthetic one. Curator: Precisely. Examining the materials and production opens a whole new perspective.