Resler, George Earl (American, 1882-1954) American artists

The drawing presents a scene unfolding before a shopfront, rendered in stark black and white with a pronounced emphasis on line work. Here we see three figures engaged in what appears to be a moment of supplication or entreaty. Two women stand before the open doorway, while a third figure, presumably the proprietor, is visible within the stores interior.
The woman closest to the viewer gestures towards the shopkeeper with an extended arm and a posture suggesting pleading. Her dress, though simple in design, appears somewhat worn, hinting at possible economic hardship. The second woman stands slightly behind her, her body angled as if observing the interaction with a degree of apprehension or concern.
Inside the store, the proprietor is framed by a display of portraits – likely family members – that line the wall above a counter. A child lies asleep on what seems to be a makeshift bed in the corner, adding a domestic element to the commercial setting. The shop’s interior appears cluttered and dimly lit, contrasting with the brighter exterior.
The composition directs attention towards the interaction between the women and the shopkeeper. The open doorway creates a visual threshold, separating the outside world from the private space of the store. This separation might symbolize a barrier – perhaps economic or social – that the women are attempting to overcome.
The drawing’s monochromatic palette contributes to its somber mood, emphasizing the textures of fabric and wood through variations in line density. The artists use of cross-hatching creates depth and shadow, enhancing the sense of realism while also contributing to a feeling of melancholy.
Subtly, the work seems to explore themes of poverty, dependence, and the complexities of human relationships within a commercial context. It is not merely a depiction of a transaction but rather an observation of a moment laden with unspoken anxieties and potential vulnerabilities.