General Sir Archibald Campbell (1739–1791), Soldier 

George Romney’s portrait of General Sir Archibald Campbell, was painted in England, likely in the late 18th century. Romney was known for his portraits of the British elite, and this work exemplifies that aspect of his production, reflecting the social structure of the time. Campbell’s red coat, his ornamentation, and powdered wig, all speak to the visual codes of military and social status. The gaze, posture and even the landscape in the background serve to project an image of power and authority. We can appreciate the artistic skill of Romney as a painter, but we can also consider the portrait as a historical document. Resources such as military records, social registers, and even fashion history can help us decode the visual information. By combining art historical analysis with broader social and institutional context, we can better understand the role of art in shaping and reflecting the values of its time.