Richard Oxenden 

Curator: This oil painting is a portrait of Richard Oxenden, by John Riley. The painting exemplifies the Baroque portrait style popular with the British aristocracy of the era. Editor: My initial thought is, it's all about the wig, isn’t it? It feels almost… sculptural. And those piercing, pale eyes—a rather commanding presence. What strikes you about it? Curator: Beyond the imposing wig, it speaks volumes about the construction of social status. Riley, who trained under Lely, painted London's elite during a period of immense social and political change. This portrait shows the aspirations and power associated with class. Editor: You see aspiration; I see a hint of weariness! There's something in the set of his mouth, a certain world-weariness. And, isn’t it fascinating how clothing plays into this? The lavishness of his jacket… but, something about it doesn’t pop! The colors almost seem drab by today's standards. Curator: The somber colors are part and parcel of late 17th century portraiture. These works aimed at conveying dignity, restraint, and an unflinching dedication to societal convention. While to modern eyes it might appear muted, back then the subtle gradations of tone spoke of sophisticated understanding of European fashions and manners. The white cravat contrasts and pulls the viewer into the details, from wig to buttons. Editor: But that contrast highlights an essential tension, wouldn’t you say? I mean, there's a clear desire for realism in the facial features, especially, yet everything around that seems deliberately stylized. Almost as though there’s a disconnect between what the subject truly feels versus the image he projects. What I feel now is that it reveals to me that he might be showing us a persona! Curator: I agree completely. And Riley's success was precisely in capturing that. To me it tells an intriguing story of the public versus the private self, doesn’t it? Editor: Absolutely. Looking closer, I see what once was then I imagine him! A compelling image. Curator: Yes, art allows us a moment in someone else’s life.