Dr. Charles Thomas Jackson (1805-1880) c. 19th century

Editor: This is Seth Wells Cheney's portrait of Dr. Charles Thomas Jackson. The tight oval format creates a rather serious mood. What symbols resonate with you in this piece? Curator: The medal, the dark coat, and the stark light all project an image of scientific authority, reflecting the values of the era. Does the symbol of the medal resonate with any fraternal orders or learned societies of the time, hinting at Jackson's place in that world? Editor: That’s insightful. I hadn't considered the medal as a symbolic link to scientific communities. Curator: Indeed. Symbols often serve as visual shorthand, reflecting the subject's identity and aspirations within their cultural context. It gives us insight into how he and the artist wanted him to be seen. Editor: That's a great point. Thanks!