Portrait of Dom Manoel Joaquim Gonçalvez, 5th Bishop of São Paulo 1828

Curator: This is Simplício Rodrigues de Sá's 1828 portrait of Dom Manoel Joaquim Gonçalvez, the 5th Bishop of São Paulo. The artist employed oil paint. Editor: He looks incredibly self-important, perched there with his hand raised like he’s blessing… absolutely everything! The color seems so dense too, doesn't it? It's striking and somehow old fashioned at the same time. Curator: Absolutely. Consider the context; this work belongs to the Neoclassical movement. It speaks of power, tradition, and the church’s authority, represented not only through his gesture but also through material wealth, specifically the clothing. Look at the fine details in the bishop's lace cuffs! It reflects consumption, which, I would argue, is intrinsic to our understanding. Editor: That's a point well made, there is a slight austerity here too; and, for me, that's almost comical, what with the sumptuousness of it all! I'm just trying to imagine the textures – that heavy ring on his finger, the weight of that cross...it makes you wonder about his life, his thoughts, what secrets are kept there behind that somewhat serious face. Curator: We can definitely see some evidence of wealth here. I would be interested to discover more about the patronage system, especially given the political dynamics of the time. Editor: Indeed! It would reveal a lot more of how wealth intersects with politics, power, and also spirituality within 19th-century Brazil. This picture brings it all to life; beyond just the painting and the act, it reveals a society. What did being a Bishop then really mean for him? Curator: Precisely. So, when thinking of history paintings, we should consider labor, access to raw material, the relationship with religious power, and ultimately consumption and economic status as inseparable. Editor: Yes! Well put. And thank you, Bishop, for unwittingly providing this glimpse! Curator: My pleasure, the connections between those ideas, plus materials and the artistic process is always worth investigating!