King George II 1755 - 1765

This is a porcelain effigy of King George II, crafted by Vauxhall. The King is depicted in ceremonial armor, a visual language that evokes power, security, and continuity. The armor, far from merely functional, acts as a symbol, harkening back to classical antiquity, where emperors and generals were immortalized in idealized forms. Consider the draped fabric across his torso. It's reminiscent of the Roman toga, a deliberate choice to align the British monarchy with the grandeur and authority of the Roman Empire. We see this motif echoed through centuries—from Roman sculptures to Renaissance portraits—each time adapted, yet still carrying the weight of its historical and cultural baggage. This visual echo speaks to our collective memory, the subconscious yearning for stability and order that we project onto our leaders. By invoking these symbols, the artist taps into this deep-seated psychological need, creating an image that resonates on more than just a superficial level. The image transcends time and, like the recurring figures in a dream, it reminds us of the cyclical nature of power, the timeless quest for leadership, and our eternal hope for a benevolent ruler.