Before you is a portrait of G.A. Richer, rendered as a platinum print from 1897. The image measures about eight by six‑a‑quarter inches, so it fits neatly on the wall yet contains fine detail. Notice the silvery tone – platinum printing gives a gentle tonal range and almost photographic clarity. The sitter looks calm; his gaze is directed forward. He wears a plain white shirt typical of Westminster officials.
Richer was “in charge of flags” at the House of Commons, a role that meant he oversaw the raising of flags for important events. Sir John Benjamin Stone, a London photographer and politician, produced this print, preserving the official likeness for today’s visitors.
G.A. Richer is in the collection of The National Portrait Gallery at St Martin's Place, London — free to enter. Point your phone at any artwork there and audioguide.london plays a free audio guide in six languages — no app download needed.