Dr. A.S.W. Rosenbach 1930

Curator: This etching by James McBey, completed in 1930, captures the likeness of Dr. A.S.W. Rosenbach, a prominent rare book dealer. Editor: My immediate impression is one of quiet authority, almost contemplative. The fine lines of the etching lend a delicate air to a clearly powerful figure. Curator: Absolutely. Rosenbach was a fascinating character, a titan in the world of rare books and manuscripts. He shaped collections and, in a way, dictated literary tastes for an entire generation of wealthy American collectors. McBey’s choice to depict him in this medium seems fitting. Etchings themselves have a history of exclusivity and refinement. Editor: Notice how McBey uses contrasting densities of line to define form and space. Look at the darker, heavier strokes around the figure's jacket versus the lighter, more fleeting marks that describe the background. It focuses our gaze entirely on Rosenbach himself. It almost isolates him within the frame. Curator: That focus certainly mirrors Rosenbach’s own singular position. He acquired some of the most significant literary treasures for private hands, often influencing what was considered “important” in literature and history. This act of collecting became almost a social currency in the roaring twenties, especially in America. McBey would have understood this when capturing his persona in art. Editor: I am intrigued by his almost ethereal appearance. The precision is striking, but there’s something almost dreamlike in its delicate execution. It is a beautiful rendering. Curator: And that perhaps touches on a key tension. Rosenbach, though influential, was also criticized for driving up prices and removing invaluable artifacts from public access. His image captures a moment where power, culture, and commerce intertwine, an interesting reflection on the era’s values. Editor: A powerful glimpse into the nature of cultural influence and a refined testament to McBey's skillful rendering. Thank you. Curator: Indeed. It showcases how a single portrait can illuminate a much broader socio-cultural landscape.