Portret van Charles Saunders 1760 - 1765

Curator: I find the textural rendering of this portrait fascinating. What do you think of this James McArdell print of Charles Saunders, created between 1760 and 1765? Editor: My first thought is, quite imposing! He looks every bit the naval commander, poised and confident. Curator: Precisely. It's crucial to acknowledge McArdell’s process. Here we have an engraving at the Rijksmuseum, meaning an intricate process of etching and then inking the plate to pull a series of identical images. This facilitates wider distribution than a unique painted portrait allowed. The scale and replication are very important to examine the political ramifications. Editor: Definitely, the social implications of producing multiple prints of naval commanders allows for widespread distribution, reinforcing national pride. Think of the messages it sent! Curator: Absolutely! Let's not ignore the significance of labor embedded in creating that plate –the artisanal skill and time required, and then also in the distribution networks of these prints; how many hands would touch these images? How are we reading images today when they appear and are instantly transferred and downloaded by millions within moments. Editor: Yes! Think about the places such portraits were displayed and who had access to them – important considerations when we think about the shaping of public image. So, it acts as a public statement as well. The setting of the scene plays into that role. Curator: What becomes clear to me in the commodification of identity via printed images is just how far reaching it may become, it sets a stage. Even today. The portrait and image act to cement a persona. Editor: It really prompts a closer look at the machinery behind image making and fame, then and now. Very interesting! Curator: I appreciate the reminder to question where these images originate, who paid for them, and the material transformations in making them. Editor: Agreed. McArdell's work offers some really vital insight.