Guillaume c. 18th century

Curator: I find this engraving titled "Guillaume," attributed to A. Claude Philippe de Thubières comte de Caylus, so understated and elegant. It's currently held in the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: It feels almost like a quick sketch, capturing a fleeting moment. The figure seems self-conscious, maybe even a bit uncomfortable in his finery. Curator: Caylus was a key figure in the 18th-century art world, and this piece speaks to the performance of identity, the societal expectations placed upon men in positions of power. Editor: Indeed, the detailed rendering of his clothing contrasts with the almost unfinished quality of his face, creating a sense of unease, a tension between the external and the internal. Curator: Considering this piece within queer theory, one might ask how Guillaume navigates societal expectations of masculinity and performance. Editor: It leaves one to question the constraints individuals face when pressured to conform to certain roles and expectations. Curator: A valuable opportunity for reflection on the individual and society.