Richard, Earl Howe, and Captain Barrington 22 - 1810

Curator: This is William Sharp's "Richard, Earl Howe, and Captain Barrington." Look at that fleet! Editor: It’s…daunting. All those ships lined up against what feels like a stormy sea. There's a lot of heavy masculine energy here, wouldn't you say? Curator: Indeed. Sharp's meticulous detail brings the naval power of the era to life. The portraits flanking the scene add a personal touch. Editor: Portraits of power, though. I’m wondering about the social and political context. Naval power, of course, is always about exerting dominance, controlling trade routes, colonization... Curator: Absolutely. The piece is a reminder of empire. You can almost feel the waves and hear the cannons. Editor: And who benefits from all of this? Who is left out of the frame entirely? Food for thought... Curator: Sharp offers us a snapshot of a moment, but what we make of that moment is up to us. Editor: Exactly. It's crucial to question the narratives embedded within these seemingly straightforward historical depictions.