This is a common feature in literary works, where the author uses an unidentified, third-person narrator to provide a more objective and distanced perspective on the events and characters. This allows the reader to draw their own conclusions about the story and its themes.
The narrator in "Quality" primarily focuses on describing the events and actions of the characters, rather than providing their inner thoughts or feelings. The reader is left to infer their motivations and emotions based on their actions and dialogue.
While the lack of a named narrator might seem ambiguous, it serves to enhance the story's themes of craftsmanship, tradition, and the impact of changing times. It allows the reader to focus on the inherent quality of the story's elements, rather than being guided by a specific character's perspective.