Portrait of Admiral Thomas Cotes 

Joshua Reynolds painted this portrait of Admiral Thomas Cotes using oil on canvas. A traditional medium of the time, this painting shows the artistic conventions and social values of 18th-century portraiture. Focus on the layers of paint which Reynolds applied to create depth, texture, and a sense of realism, from the thick impasto of the face and wig to the thinner, more translucent glazes of the Admiral's uniform. The vibrant colors are achieved by mixing pigments with oil, patiently applied and blended. Look closely at the detailing of the uniform’s gold trim and buttons. Consider the amount of labor required to produce such a lavish, handmade garment. The portrait is more than just an image, it’s a physical manifestation of class, labor, and consumption, reflecting the social hierarchies of 18th-century Britain. This painting challenges traditional distinctions between fine art and craft, showing that both are deeply intertwined with the material world and the social conditions in which they are created.