John Colet 24 - 1795

Editor: Here we have Francesco Bartolozzi's engraving of John Colet from 1795. It has a kind of stark, classical feel to it, I think. It makes me wonder, what are we supposed to feel when we look at this? Curator: Good question! It strikes me as intentionally… reserved. Neoclassicism often aimed for a certain moral clarity, a sort of intellectual 'coolness'. What details draw you in? Editor: I guess it’s how clean everything is. It feels very precise, very… planned. Curator: Precisely! And who was John Colet, in life, versus this… idealised representation of him? Does this portrait capture a likeness, or an ideal? Think about what details Bartolozzi chooses to emphasize - or downplay. The almost severe simplicity... Do you find any symbolism here? Editor: Hmm... Well, he’s wearing very simple clothes, not fancy at all. Is that a kind of statement? Like, he’s supposed to be very pious? Curator: Maybe. Or perhaps suggesting humility, a turning away from earthly pleasures, a focus on spiritual or intellectual pursuits. It also reflects Neoclassical ideals that were very popular in the late 18th Century and sought a return to more austere models of art, learning, and politics. What would this portrait say about the owner of it, back then, do you think? Editor: Maybe they wanted to show they valued learning and simplicity too. This wasn't about how rich you were! Curator: Exactly! And that’s what I take away too – it’s a potent blend of personality and ideology. Thank you. Editor: Thanks, this was very insightful.