Portrait of Rev. Richard Stables 1767

George Romney created this oil on canvas painting of Reverend Richard Stables, and like many portraits of its time, it reflects a certain social order. In the 18th century, the making of paints was itself a skilled trade, with pigments carefully ground and mixed with oils. The texture, weight, and color of the paint are all results of this skilled process. Romney applied these materials in a manner that was seen as refined, almost effortless. But the reality is that a portrait like this involved labor not just by the artist, but also by those who produced the canvas, prepared the paints, and even sat as models. The painting is not just a representation of Stables, but also of the complex web of social and economic relationships that made its creation possible. So, next time you look at a painting, remember to look beyond the surface and consider the materials, the making, and the broader context that shaped its creation. This challenges traditional distinctions between fine art and craft, revealing the rich tapestry of skills and labor that underpin every work of art.