Sketches of Male Heads (recto); Two Old Women (verso) n.d.

Curator: Here we have a drawing by Thomas Patch titled "Sketches of Male Heads (recto); Two Old Women (verso)", dating from around the 18th century. It's rendered in pencil on paper. Editor: It’s striking how unfinished yet expressive these studies of faces are, capturing a mood that is both contemplative and slightly melancholic. The artist’s mark making seems incredibly efficient, yet it clearly represents form in a distinctive way. Curator: Absolutely. Consider that paper at the time would have been quite expensive. The relative sketch-like appearance gives us an insight into Patch’s working process; he probably produced these drawings as preparatory studies. He would be looking to reuse materials when able. Editor: And look at the way the various subjects seem to cluster, with each portrait overlapping. Faces tilted in different directions suggests varied thoughts or states of being, creating a composition loaded with visual cues to possible internal character. What can you tell us about the other side, or verso, mentioned in the title? Curator: The other side, "Two Old Women", offers a glimpse into everyday life, which wasn't uncommon in some drawing at the time. Considering the cultural context of 18th century art, there was still a division between high art like history painting and what were seen as more lowly subjects. Editor: Yet, those sketches on the reverse still carry potent, symbolic weight. Older women often represented wisdom, or the transience of life, echoing memento mori traditions. Curator: Certainly, one might make that connection, while I see him more clearly making economic decisions related to expensive paper and production methods. Editor: Perhaps he found a canvas where symbolic expression and material constraints could meet and mix, generating this somewhat somber and yet lovely image. Curator: That’s a rather generous view, though one that underscores the enduring power of sketches. Editor: Precisely, something seemingly casual offering surprising, reflective depth.