Dimensions: height 112 mm, width 73 mm
Copyright: Rijks Museum: Open Domain
Here's a small, anonymous portrait of David Lloyd George, made sometime when he was Prime Minister. It's interesting how the anonymous artist uses tone to suggest form and character. Look at how the gradations of grey around his face give him depth, and how the slightly darker tones around his eyes suggest a certain weariness or thoughtfulness. The portrait is quite small, but there's a real sense of presence. The artist is unknown, which I think, is interesting: it suggests an everyday person making an image of a powerful public figure. It reminds me of those portraits by Alice Neel, that mix an insider's perspective with something more raw and personal. Art's not just about big names; it's an ongoing conversation, full of different voices and ways of seeing. And this little portrait definitely has something to say!
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