Samuel More 18th-19th century

Editor: This is William Sharp's portrait of Samuel More. I find the sitter's posture quite commanding, and the monochrome print feels rather serious. What do you make of it? Curator: It's interesting, isn't it? The level of detail Sharp achieves is astounding. But for me, it is the objects surrounding More that speak volumes. Look at the papers in his hand, the books on the table. They're clues, breadcrumbs to a life dedicated to intellect and perhaps a dash of self-importance? Editor: Self-importance? I hadn't considered that. Curator: Well, perhaps. It's easy to project, isn't it? Art's like a mirror reflecting our own biases. The crispness of the rendering certainly speaks to status. Editor: I see your point. It makes me wonder what other stories this portrait holds. Curator: Indeed. That's the beauty of art. It keeps asking questions, even when we think we have the answers.