Joseph Leeson, Later 2nd Earl of Milltown 1751

Pompeo Batoni painted Joseph Leeson, later 2nd Earl of Milltown, in oil. The fur adorning Leeson’s jacket speaks of opulence and status, a symbol deeply rooted in human history. Consider its ancient origins, where animal skins signified primal protection and prowess. This motif is not fixed but fluid, it appears throughout history. In medieval portraiture, ermine trim denoted royalty and purity, while in contemporary fashion, fur can evoke rebellion, luxury, or ethical concerns. This transformation reflects our evolving relationship with nature and wealth. These subtle gestures and symbols of wealth and status engage viewers on a deep, subconscious level. They are emotional and psychological forces, laden with layers of meaning that echo through generations. This fur, which has been worn, shed, and reborn through history, reflects cultural values, psychological anxieties, and enduring desires. This cyclical progression evolves and resurfaces with new meanings in different historical contexts.