Artistic Merit

There was an anniversary to celebrate. Gifts were being exchanged.

Here we see that of Mr Foxe to Mr Boxe. A nineteenth-century plaster “grand tour” cameo, so called because sets of them were popular as souvenirs for those making the Grand Tour of Europe. This is Hercules freeing Prometheus, rescued from a broken-up set.

“A nod to your love of classics, my dear Boxe,” said Mr Foxe.

“I adore it,” said Mr Boxe breathlessly.

“I was particularly struck by the vigour of the composition,” said Mr Foxe.

“Goodness, yes,” said Mr Boxe. “I cannot take my eyes off the composition, nor the draughtsmanship.”

“Absolutely,” said Mr Foxe. “I knew the draughtsmanship would be the very thing for you.”

“Where shall we hang it?” asked Mr Boxe, still staring at the draughtsmanship.

“I propose,” said Mr Foxe, “that we ask Junior Wobbleshot to carry it from room to room as we move about.”

“Capital,” said Mr Boxe. “Much like this draughtsmanship.”

“Draughtsmanship,” said Mr Foxe.