Bärtiger Alter mit Turban mit zwei langen Federn im Profil nach links 

Curator: This is Johann Andreas Benjamin Nothnagel's "Bearded Old Man with Turban and Two Long Feathers, in Profile to the Left." The medium used appears to be primarily ink on paper. Editor: It’s arresting. The hatching and stark monochrome give it a real weight, almost a sculptural feel despite being a drawing. There's such depth to the textures. Curator: Indeed, observe how Nothnagel utilized the tools at his disposal and his access to certain commodities; it is indicative of the socio-economic landscape of artistic production at the time. Was this work commissioned, or was Nothnagel partaking in academic exercises to establish prominence in history painting? What sort of inks were used? What labor went into their production? These questions of production shape my perception of it. Editor: I am drawn to the expressive use of line to create the texture of the fur and the wispy beard. Consider also the stark contrast of the plain background versus the rich details. The semiotic interplay generates an intriguing, aged effect; observe its structural relation and emotional influence on us. Curator: The choice of the subject too. The "exotic" other in costume, reflecting the era's fascination with and trade relationships within the Ottoman empire and North Africa. One can appreciate how it fed into colonial narratives of cultural appropriation and representation. Editor: Agreed, it's problematic. Formally, I note how the artist positioned the man in profile, perhaps for ease, but also notice that that creates distance. Curator: This portrait also encourages an analysis of how garments function as signifiers of wealth and position. Who had access to those feathers? And to the artisans to manufacture that particular garment? Editor: An object of opulence as perceived from Nothnagel's position... This close examination certainly illuminates aspects I overlooked. The tension between the tangible and symbolic weight is heightened by these sociopolitical insights. Curator: Likewise. Contemplating the formal composition enriches the context for my engagement with this image, broadening my perception of its function and creation.