Lord Burghersh c. 18th century

Curator: This is Francesco Bartolozzi’s print titled, "Lord Burghersh." Editor: It's striking how this portrait of a child evokes such a feeling of lightness and carefree joy. Curator: The print was made using the stipple engraving technique. Bartolozzi was very influential in popularizing it. Editor: It is fascinating how the clothing, especially the sash, hint at both innocence and the future roles that the child will assume as they grow. Curator: Absolutely, and the print circulated widely, solidifying the subject's position within elite social circles. Editor: Considering how images shape identity and perception, I wonder about the implications of such representation, especially for a child of privilege. Curator: It's certainly a powerful reminder of the constructed nature of identity, and the roles that art plays in reinforcing social structures. Editor: This piece really offers a lot to consider about representation and power dynamics.