Charles Goldsborough 1802

Editor: We’re looking at “Charles Goldsborough,” a drawing made around 1802 by Robert Field. It’s a pretty standard portrait of the time, but something about his direct gaze makes me wonder what role he played in society. What's your interpretation of this portrait? Curator: Well, the stern look does indicate that Mr. Goldsborough probably thought of himself as an important member of the American gentry. Robert Field’s success as a portraitist came at a particular moment, didn’t it? After the Revolution, America was eager to establish its own aristocracy. He delivered accessible, neoclassical images to people like Goldsborough, who had something to prove about their place in the new social order. Editor: So, this isn't just about capturing a likeness but also about establishing social standing? Curator: Absolutely. Consider the way Goldsborough is dressed - the immaculate white cravat, the dark coat. These aren't just clothes, but symbols of wealth, taste, and power. These portraits legitimized the authority of leading citizens. Would you say Goldsborough comes across as trustworthy based on this image? Editor: He definitely projects a sense of authority, maybe even a bit stiff. It's interesting how artists can contribute to solidifying class structures. Curator: Exactly. And museums today often participate in these dynamics whether we intend to or not. Whose portraits are displayed prominently versus stored away unseen. Editor: That's a point. It makes me think differently about how we present these works and who we choose to highlight. Curator: Indeed. Seeing art this way is critical, recognizing how intertwined artistic choices, personal identities, and social structures truly are.