Two Sections of the Queen's Robe, for "Belshazzar's Feast" 1817

Editor: Here we have Washington Allston's "Two Sections of the Queen's Robe, for 'Belshazzar's Feast'," a drawing of fabric studies. It feels incomplete, like a glimpse behind the scenes. What can you tell me about its context? Curator: Allston was preparing for a grand, historical painting. These robe studies reveal the artist's interest in authenticity, but also in the power of spectacle and how clothing signifies social status. How do you think the finished painting might have used these elements? Editor: It makes me think about the queen as a symbol of power. I hadn't considered clothing in that way before. Thanks! Curator: Exactly. And Allston used clothing to convey power and status within the painting.