Lord William Pawlett n.d.

Curator: Here we have an artwork attributed to Richard Dighton, it is a watercolor and pencil drawing, likely a print, titled "Lord William Pawlett". It is undated and is currently held in the collection of the Art Institute of Chicago. What are your initial thoughts? Editor: Well, first of all, the hat! It’s gloriously, unapologetically tall. And the tiny umbrella – almost a delicate accessory rather than a rain shield. It feels like a scene lifted from a novel, a gentleman entirely too refined for this earthly realm. Curator: It's fascinating how Dighton employs caricature to depict Pawlett, subtly exaggerating features to create a recognizable, if somewhat comical, likeness. Consider how the artist used line to define form and expression, turning the figure almost into a set of pleasing curves, all enhanced with delicate washes of color. The composition’s formal balance enhances the satirical intent. Editor: Right, the slightly protuberant belly pressing against his coat! It's cheeky but not cruel. It’s as if the artist saw past the lordly exterior to some charming, if harmless, foible underneath. The man’s very carriage is speaking volumes about class and societal expectations. Do you think that the use of watercolor on paper contributes to a certain lightness? Curator: I would say so, and that contrasts the serious subject of social standing. Watercolor allows for translucency that reinforces the caricature’s fragility as well as the society it lampoons. The man stands separate, individual against a nondescript backdrop, the artist drawing attention to him, emphasizing what is different and notable, without completely isolating him. Editor: It all invites us to play with perceptions and appearances. To see past the stiff collars, past the silly tall hats, to that universal human something that makes us smile, or wince, or nod in recognition. The portrait remains light in palette and mood, and I leave feeling warm, sympathetic, but still distanced from this…character.