George Heriot c. 19th century

Editor: This is Robert Cooper’s portrait of George Heriot, engraved around the turn of the 18th century. The ruff is so striking! What can you tell me about the symbolism at play here? Curator: Indeed. The ruff, more than mere fashion, speaks to status and self-presentation. Consider the period: what does it mean to project such an image of refinement, and who has access to such displays? Editor: It suggests power and wealth, a desire to be seen as cultured during a time of great social change. So, the portrait becomes a symbol of an older order? Curator: Precisely. And how does the artist subtly reinforce or challenge that expectation through technique and style? What memories does it evoke for you? Editor: I see the older order and its symbols being pushed to the side. It's interesting how portraits capture this tension between holding onto the past and looking to the future. Curator: Exactly, reflecting how symbols evolve and carry different emotional weight through generations.