John Tillotson, Archbishop of Canterbury c. 17th century

Curator: Immediately striking is the dense, almost velvety texture achieved in this portrait. The intricate hatching really gives weight to the sitter. Editor: This is Robert White's engraving of John Tillotson, Archbishop of Canterbury. It was created around 1694, a period when religious and political authority were closely intertwined. Curator: The oval frame and tight composition really focus our attention on Tillotson's face. The lines create a sense of depth and volume. Editor: White's prints circulated widely, playing a key role in shaping public perceptions of prominent figures like Tillotson. These images were essential for disseminating authority. Curator: Notice how the engraver uses light and shadow to model the face and create a sense of character. Editor: Indeed, it’s interesting to consider how printed images contributed to both the construction of celebrity and the reinforcement of established power structures. Curator: It makes you appreciate how much the artist's hand can influence our reading of a portrait. Editor: Absolutely. This image exists as a historical document, but it is also so much more.