Portret van John Manners c. 1766 - 1770

This is an undated mezzotint portrait of John Manners made by James Watson. It speaks to the social and political climate of 18th century Britain. Manners is depicted in military garb, suggesting a life of service and duty to his nation. Note the inclusion of the groom, a person of colour, which reflects Britain’s colonial presence and its reliance on exploited labour. The way Manners is elevated over the groom speaks to the social hierarchies of the time, as does the grandeur of the horse and the expansive landscape. To properly understand this print, we need to delve into the history books, looking at military records, colonial documents, and social commentaries of the time. This kind of research gives us insights into the complex interplay of power, class, and race that shaped the visual culture of 18th century Britain, reminding us that art is never made in a vacuum.