Washington Irving 19th-20th century

Editor: Here we have William Sartain’s portrait of Washington Irving. The piece has a certain formality to it, don't you think? What symbols or historical references are captured here? Curator: Sartain presents Irving as a gentleman. Note the ascot, the soft fur collar. These are symbols of class and refinement. Irving’s gaze, directed outward, speaks to his role as a public figure, a storyteller addressing his audience. Editor: So, the clothing and the gaze are really communicating status? Curator: Exactly. It speaks of a time when artists carefully constructed images to convey societal roles and expectations. What lasting power do you think such images hold? Editor: It's interesting how visual cues can encapsulate so much about the past. I'll definitely look at portraits differently now!