15. John Richards RA. Secretary of the Royal Academy 1795

Editor: This is a sketch of John Richards, Secretary of the Royal Academy, by George Dance. I find it quite amusing, almost cartoonish in its proportions. What strikes you about it? Curator: The hat immediately stands out. It’s almost a halo, isn’t it? A visual symbol of authority, yet its size borders on the absurd, adding a layer of complexity to Richards's persona. What do you make of that contrast? Editor: It is strange and interesting to think of a hat connoting authority. Curator: Symbols often carry a double meaning, especially in portraiture. Dance uses exaggeration to create an immediate impression. The way Richards is drawn also speaks to a certain social commentary about class and power. Editor: I see your point. It's not just a portrait; it's a statement! Curator: Precisely. The sketch reveals more than just a likeness; it captures a whole cultural narrative.