Hyacinthe Rigaud c. 18th century

Curator: Well, this is a print of Hyacinthe Rigaud by Pierre Drevet. It's a striking portrait, done in engraving. Editor: Oh, it does have a certain…gravitas. So somber, yet there’s a light in his eyes. And he's holding his brushes! He looks like he's about to judge my technique. Curator: He was a master portraitist, so maybe he would. The brushes and palette are symbols of his profession. But that draped fabric…it almost swallows him. Editor: Yes, it’s a shroud of sorts, or maybe a theatrical curtain call. He's presenting himself, isn't he? The artist as performer. I wonder, what does the column say about his psyche? Curator: Maybe it’s his need for stability, his classical aspirations. Artists often weave their ideals into the background. Editor: I like that! He's solidifying his place in history, one brushstroke, one column at a time. Curator: I hadn't considered his need for legacy, but now that I consider it, it feels obvious. Editor: Indeed. The image sings when you see the artist's need to be remembered.