Portret van James Gibbs c. 1740 - 1754

This is James McArdell’s undated mezzotint portrait of James Gibbs, currently held in the Rijksmuseum. It offers a fascinating lens through which to view the social status of architects in the 18th century. Made in Britain, the image encodes status through its depiction of Gibbs’s dress and pose. Note the architect's powdered wig, velvet jacket, and the delicate lace at his wrists. He is captured in the act of planning, dividers in hand, surrounded by the tools and drawings of his trade. The print subtly elevates architecture to the realm of the liberal arts, worthy of commemoration and prestige. Consider too, the institutional context: portraits like these were often commissioned by the sitter, or by professional bodies, to project an image of authority and accomplishment. Analysing such a portrait, the historian may consult period publications to understand contemporary views on architecture, and institutional records to understand the dynamics of artistic patronage. In doing so, we can start to appreciate how art operates within a complex web of social relations.