The Reverend Charles Brockwell 1750

Curator: Editor: We’re looking at a print of "The Reverend Charles Brockwell," made around 1750 by Peter Pelham. It's a very formal portrait. What strikes you first? Editor: The wig! It's so elaborate! And the way he's posed; very stately. What can you tell me about this piece? Curator: It’s interesting to consider the role of portraiture at that time, especially in the colonies. Pelham, himself an interesting figure, straddled the line between artisan and artist. The print flattens the Reverend, don't you think? Editor: Yes, it almost makes him seem like a type, a symbol, rather than an individual. I never thought about prints as serving such a social function. Thanks. Curator: Indeed! And food for thought, about how we construct images even today, eh?