Brass Crosby 1787

Curator: Thomas Hardy painted this oil on canvas portrait of Brass Crosby in 1787. Crosby was a significant figure in London's political landscape, serving as Lord Mayor. Editor: Okay, wow, first impression: pomp and circumstance! You know, the colours, that glorious gold waistcoat. It just oozes importance, doesn’t it? Almost like he's wearing a sunset. Curator: Indeed! The opulent clothing, the civic regalia… It's all carefully chosen to project power and authority. Consider, too, the presence of the crown. How does it speak to you? Editor: That's so obvious that it almost becomes caricature. Like, "look at me, I'm important, important things happen near me!" On the other hand, I feel a bit sorry for him – carrying all that weight in his hand. That piece of paper. He must be sweating there... What would be the letter about, do you think? Curator: Likely official business related to his position. His defiance of parliamentary orders made him a celebrated figure—championing the rights of the city and individual freedoms during a turbulent period. Editor: Right, he looks slightly uncomfortable though. Or at least very aware of being watched, which, to be fair, he probably was! I suppose Hardy, through the Rococo and Baroque styles, captured that weight, but added a bit of...drama, or the feeling of importance to the guy? Curator: Precisely. The Baroque and Rococo elements serve not only to depict the subject, but to subtly ennoble the era and Crosby's place within it, presenting him in this almost heroic fashion, while speaking to his era as one of high society. The soft light across his face and hands draws us into that central narrative. Editor: Okay, I have to admit, you've elevated this picture of what at first felt slightly ridiculous, up a few notches. Maybe there is something very 'human' that Hardy achieved. It's all rather...thought-provoking when you dive a little deeper. Curator: Which is perhaps the point, yes? To recognize that beyond the aesthetics, portraits like this offer vital clues for the social and political contexts from whence they originate, revealing stories about power, representation, and societal values. Editor: And sometimes, just a very self-conscious man in a very shiny vest! Okay, Brass Crosby, you have been considered!