Sarah Siddons as Isabella from 'The Tragedy of Isabella' or 'The Fatal Marriage' 1785

Editor: Here we have William Hamilton’s oil painting from 1785, "Sarah Siddons as Isabella from 'The Tragedy of Isabella' or 'The Fatal Marriage'". The depiction of Sarah Siddons really captures a melancholic mood. What can you tell me about the significance of this painting, beyond it just being a portrait? Curator: This painting operates on several levels. It's a portrait of Sarah Siddons, yes, but more importantly, it capitalizes on her fame as a tragic actress. The choice to depict her *as* Isabella is crucial. It speaks to the rising interest in individual emotion and interiority, very characteristic of the Romantic era. The public associated Siddons with these intense, dramatic roles. How do you think that relationship influenced the painting's reception? Editor: I guess people would come to the painting already having expectations about Siddons and about the role of Isabella, layering those meanings onto the image? Curator: Exactly! And that’s where the politics come in. Theatre, and by extension, theatrical portraiture, offered a space to explore socially acceptable expressions of strong emotion, particularly for women. Siddons became a cultural icon because she embodied these passions on stage. Editor: So it’s not just about Siddons, or even just about Isabella, but about how society understood women’s roles and emotions at that time? Curator: Precisely. The painting, therefore, isn't just a likeness; it's a cultural artifact, reflecting the evolving public role of women and the power of celebrity. Editor: That's really fascinating. I hadn't considered the social context of theatrical portraits. Curator: Thinking about art as a product of its time is always useful. Now I see the portrait of Sarah Siddons with new eyes. Editor: Me too! This conversation gave me a fresh perspective.