William Augustus, Duke of Cumberland (1721–1765) 1744 - 1757

Editor: So, this is a porcelain sculpture titled "William Augustus, Duke of Cumberland" made by the Chelsea Porcelain Manufactory between 1744 and 1757. It’s striking in its stark whiteness and how it presents power, almost as propaganda, even. What story does it tell from your perspective? Curator: It's a fascinating piece because it speaks to the politicization of art. Consider how porcelain, once a rare and coveted material, became a medium for representing figures of authority. This bust was created in the wake of the Jacobite risings. How do you think representing Cumberland, a military figure, in such a delicate material affects its reception? Editor: That's a good point. It’s almost a paradox—fragile material for a war hero. Does that lessen his impact? Curator: Not necessarily. Think about the target audience. Porcelain figures like this would have been displayed in wealthy homes, subtly reinforcing loyalty to the Hanoverian dynasty amongst the elite. This wasn't just art; it was a carefully crafted message, shaped by the politics of the time and consumed within a specific social sphere. Are there elements beyond pure propaganda? Editor: I suppose the artistry is definitely worth some discussion! The attention to detail in the hair and clothing seems like a real statement. Almost, in its own way, communicating the sophistication of the court. Curator: Exactly! It's a dance between artistic skill and political messaging, aimed at a specific audience. And museums play a crucial role by maintaining, interpreting, and contextualizing that message for contemporary society. Editor: This piece reveals that propaganda or messages in art, which feel pervasive now, are certainly not new. Curator: Precisely. It makes me think about our present, who are the Dukes and Duchesses immortalized now?