Portret van Mattew Poole 1679 - 1799

Editor: This is a portrait engraving, dating sometime between 1679 and 1799, titled "Portret van Mattew Poole" by Joseph de Montalegre. It feels so formal and staged, and the engraving is quite detailed. What do you see in this piece from a historical point of view? Curator: Well, immediately, the formality speaks volumes. These portraits, particularly engravings made for wider circulation, were crucial in shaping the public image of individuals. It begs the question: who was Matthew Poole, and why was it deemed necessary to disseminate his image so widely? The inclusion of the heraldic crest is also important; it tells us something about the sitter's status and aspirations for remembrance. How does the public consumption of this differ from a painted portrait displayed in someone's house? Editor: So, it’s more about crafting and controlling a specific public image? Would engravings like this have served a purpose beyond just memorializing someone? Curator: Exactly! Think about the socio-political context. Was Poole a political figure, a religious leader, or perhaps a writer whose ideas were shaping public discourse? The deliberate construction of his image becomes a powerful tool, solidifying his authority and potentially influencing public opinion. We also need to consider where these engravings were sold and to whom, and in what spaces would the public have seen the piece? It’s an engagement of visual politics as well. Editor: That's a perspective I hadn't fully considered before. I was just seeing it as an old picture! Curator: These portraits played an important part in shaping the visual culture and social narratives of the time, especially among certain groups in society. Examining how images like these circulate is just as important as analyzing their aesthetic value. What have you gotten from our talk about the politics of the image? Editor: I've definitely gained a deeper understanding of the role art plays in shaping public perception and social influence.