John, 1st Baron Byron 2013

Kehinde Wiley’s *John, 1st Baron Byron* (2013) is a portrait of a Black man in the style of a traditional European portrait. The subject is posed against a background of elaborate floral patterns, reminiscent of the decorative motifs found in European art. By placing a contemporary Black man in this historical context, Wiley challenges traditional notions of representation and power within art history, and highlights the ongoing struggles for equality and representation. This work is a powerful example of Wiley’s signature style, which blends realism with an imaginative approach to portraiture. The work has been praised for its beauty, complexity, and social commentary.