William Jones 1740

Editor: This is William Hogarth's "William Jones," painted in 1740 using oil paint. It has such a stately and calm feeling. Something about the man's pose makes me curious about who he was. What's your read on this portrait? Curator: Well, aren't portraits fascinating windows into the past? I see Hogarth, of course – his practical realism and sly humour shine through. And then there's Jones himself, caught in a moment of what looks like prosperous contemplation. Hogarth wasn’t afraid to paint his subjects as real people, not idealised versions of themselves like some other artists did. Do you see how the somewhat muted colors evoke seriousness but, maybe a bit of melancholy? Editor: Yes, it is very human. The brown hues contribute to this feeling a lot. Is there any symbolic significance behind the objects that surround him like the column or his hat? Curator: Absolutely. A column often signifies stability, nobility, or even virtue. And a hat might simply signal status or preparedness. It makes you wonder what preoccupies him, doesn't it? It could be business, perhaps political schemes, or even some quiet pondering over matters of the heart! He is very deliberately holding it instead of just wearing it or putting it down. I find this peculiar and would interpret that it’s because he does not want to fully unveil himself or participate to whatever events await him. He holds the key! What do you make of that gaze? Editor: You're right, his eyes look contemplative and almost melancholic as if something has happened in his life or that there are challenges. His control over the hat might symbolize some inner turmoil he holds on to tightly. It's really a powerful capture. Curator: It really is a conversation starter, isn't it? Who would have known that the story behind that melancholic look could trigger a series of insights? Hogarth invites us to play detective with our imagination. I find that extraordinary. Editor: This portrait now feels like more than just paint on canvas. I'll certainly look at portraits with a different perspective now. Thanks!