Pomare Rex 1891 - 1900

Curator: John La Farge made this portrait, "Pomare Rex," during his travels. The portrait is a pencil drawing, and it captures the likeness of King Pomare. Editor: There's a stillness to it, a reserved quality in the light and shading that suggests the weight of kingship. Curator: Indeed, La Farge was keen to document the political and social structures he encountered. Think of the labor required to extract graphite in the 19th century, or the global economy that brought artist and subject together. Editor: True, but I’m drawn to the composition itself: the framing, the way his gaze meets ours. The simplicity of the medium only heightens the impact of the subject. Curator: I see your point, that visual language, of course, reflects an encounter between cultures. Editor: Precisely. It gives us something to consider beyond the immediate surface. Curator: A worthwhile addition to the audio guide, giving listeners a fresh perspective. Editor: Definitely, and it prompts further consideration of artistic skill.