Admiral Sir Robert Kingsmill c. 1764 - 1766

Editor: So, here we have Sir Joshua Reynolds' portrait of Admiral Sir Robert Kingsmill. The darkness really makes Kingsmill's face pop, and there's this tiny ship in the background... quite dramatic. What strikes you about this piece? Curator: That ship is key, isn't it? Reynolds was a master of suggestion. He wants us to feel the weight of Kingsmill's naval career, but with the softest touch. The way he catches the light...it's like Kingsmill *is* the sea, calm on the surface, deep and powerful underneath. Don't you think? Editor: Absolutely. It's a fascinating blend of power and subtlety. Curator: Indeed, a dance between the seen and unseen, leaving us pondering the man behind the uniform.