Portrait of a Woman Facing Right 1798

Editor: Here we have Francesco Bartolozzi's "Portrait of a Woman Facing Right," made around 1798. It’s an engraving printed on paper. It's delicate, and very... formal, wouldn't you say? What can you tell me about it? Curator: Well, the formality you observe is quite telling. The late 18th century was a period of strict social codes, and portraiture, particularly of women, became a stage upon which those codes were reinforced and, sometimes, challenged. Editor: Challenged? How so? Curator: Notice her gaze; it's directed purposefully to the side, but there's an assertiveness there. Then, consider the detail in the depiction of her clothing and jewelry. Does it reflect individuality, or societal expectations? Are we seeing her or an idealized version of her, acceptable for that period? Editor: It's hard to say... The detail does make her seem like an individual, but the very style seems restrictive. And what about the "In His Majesty's Collection" note below the portrait? Curator: Exactly. Knowing this print was part of a royal collection places it within a political context. How might being "collected" reflect on the subject's status as a woman, versus how the King himself was perceived at the time? Editor: It makes me think of power, both who holds it and who is subjected to it, doesn’t it? And also who decides which woman to engrave. Curator: Precisely. Looking closely, we see how portraits function as both records and enactments of power, dictating not just representation, but perception, even now. Editor: I’ll never look at portraits the same way again. Thanks, I’ve learned to consider not just who is shown but also the context surrounding the making and displaying.