Portrait of a Gentleman Dressed in Furs 1760

Thomas Worlidge created this graphite portrait on paper of a gentleman dressed in furs, sometime around 1760. During the 18th century, there was a growing fascination in Europe with "exotic" cultures and attire, often filtered through colonial and orientalist lenses. This drawing reflects this trend. We see the sitter adorned in what appears to be a turban and fur-lined garments, evoking a sense of opulence and otherness. However, this representation also speaks to the power dynamics inherent in cross-cultural representation. Worlidge's choice to depict his subject in this manner raises questions about how identity is performed and consumed. Is this a genuine attempt to capture the essence of a foreign culture, or is it an appropriation, where the "exotic" is repackaged for European audiences? What are the cultural implications of portraying someone in such garb, especially when considering the complex history of trade and colonialism during this era? Consider the emotional impact of this image: do you feel a sense of connection with the sitter, or does the exoticized portrayal create distance?