John Horne Tooke (1736-1812) 1791

Editor: Here we have Anker Smith’s portrait of John Horne Tooke, a stipple engraving. It gives a very formal, almost stoic impression. What symbols or visual cues do you see embedded in this image? Curator: The clothing itself is a symbol. The meticulously rendered buttons and fabric speak of status and aspiration. The sitter is literally buttoned up and constrained. But look closer – is that a hint of a defiant smirk? Editor: It’s subtle, but yes, perhaps. Does that change how we should view it? Curator: Indeed. It reminds us that portraits are never neutral. They are carefully constructed performances meant to convey a certain message, to solidify one’s place in history and memory. Editor: So even seemingly straightforward images carry layers of meaning. That's fascinating.