Portrait of Prince Edward, Duke of York and Albany 1754

Jean-Étienne Liotard captured Prince Edward, Duke of York and Albany, with pastels, a medium favored for its soft textures and ability to mimic the delicate flush of skin. The portrait reflects the aesthetic values of the 18th century, where the aristocracy favored images of themselves that communicated refinement, status, and power. Notice how the powdered wig and the satin fabrics speak to the Duke’s class, while the sash alludes to his status as a Knight of the Garter. Liotard was known for his travels, spending significant periods in places like Constantinople. This broadened his artistic perspective, infusing his work with an awareness of diverse cultural representations. What does it mean to portray an individual who is born into privilege and power? How might the artistic choices—the smooth rendering, the soft color palette—reinforce the sitter's perceived status? In a world where identity is increasingly fluid and contested, this portrait prompts us to reflect on the visual markers of identity and the narratives they construct.