Portret van George Germain 1759

This is James McArdell's Portrait of George Germain, a mezzotint made in England during the 18th century. Note the trappings of wealth and power on display here. Germain is adorned in fine furs and military regalia, a display of status that speaks to the social hierarchies of the time. The inclusion of the horse is also a significant element. Horses were historically associated with the aristocracy and military prowess, further emphasizing Germain's elevated position in society. These visual codes are not accidental. They reflect the values and aspirations of the British ruling class, who used portraiture to project an image of authority and refinement. As historians, we can look to sources such as letters, diaries, and financial records to better understand the world in which this image was made. The art of portraiture is always contingent on social and institutional context, and it is through careful research that we can come to appreciate its full meaning.