Nathaniel Appleton (1693-1784) 1759 - 1761

Curator: This is John Singleton Copley’s portrait of Nathaniel Appleton, currently residing at the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: The somber tones immediately suggest gravitas, almost a weightiness of intellect and position. The book itself seems to anchor him. Curator: Consider the materiality, though. Copley, ever the craftsman, meticulously renders Appleton's scholarly presentation, highlighting the labor and societal expectations embedded within these objects. Editor: The books, of course, are crucial symbols. They represent knowledge, authority, and Appleton's role as a minister and theologian. They signify a life dedicated to learning and spiritual guidance. Curator: Yes, but look closer at the textiles and the palpable texture that Copley achieves. The paint itself becomes a signifier of status and access, essential to Copley's Boston clientele. Editor: Ultimately, it’s Appleton’s gaze that lingers. A quiet strength and unwavering conviction seem to emanate from his eyes, connecting us to a legacy of faith and intellectual pursuit. Curator: Indeed, and understanding the context of these materials is key to understanding the society that produced, consumed, and venerated them.