Proofs 1817 - 1864

Editor: So, here we have "Proofs," a drawing, print and pen piece done by John Leech, sometime between 1817 and 1864. It depicts a family scene with several dogs. I am really drawn to the intricate line work in this image, especially the textures it creates. What are your initial thoughts on this piece? Curator: Well, first off, the title's interesting, right? "Proofs." Makes you wonder what exactly is being proven here. Perhaps Leech is offering us proof of social customs of the time? The attention to detail, the rendering of clothing, it feels almost documentary, doesn't it? A glimpse into the leisure activities of a wealthy Victorian family, each member seemingly tethered to their respective pooch. What do you make of the relationships between the figures in the image? Editor: I see what you mean! They all seem rather detached. There isn't a whole lot of interaction between them. Almost like separate portraits within a larger picture. Curator: Exactly! Leech captures that Victorian sense of formality, that studied indifference. Notice how the dogs seem to mirror the personalities of their owners, or perhaps their social status. And there’s a subtle satire there, don't you think? Are we celebrating or gently mocking this scene? Leech invites us to wonder. He was a keen observer of social behavior, and a bit of a mischievous soul. It makes one ponder about the hidden narrative that unfolds within the walls of the wealthy families during that era. What untold stories these walls might hold. Editor: That’s so true, especially about the dogs! They really do seem to reflect their owners. I never would have picked up on that without you pointing it out. Curator: Art opens up worlds! What seemed at first a simple portrait turns into a mirror reflecting a whole social stratum. Editor: Well, I’ll definitely be looking at Victorian art differently from now on. Thanks!