The Right Honorable Arthur James Balfour 1921

Walter Tittle created this print of Arthur James Balfour using etching. Balfour, a prominent figure, is rendered with careful attention to detail, his gaze direct and contemplative. Consider the symbolism inherent in portraiture, reaching back to antiquity. It's not simply about capturing a likeness, it’s about conveying status and character. Balfour's formal attire and composed demeanor speak to his position and the weight of responsibility he carries. We see echoes of Roman senatorial portraits, where the furrowed brow and stern expression conveyed wisdom and gravitas. Yet, there's a subtle psychological dimension at play here. The artist captures a sense of the inner man, hinting at the complexities and perhaps the burdens that come with power. This interplay between the external persona and the internal state is a recurring theme throughout art history, a dance between public image and private self that engages us still. These images work on us through a language of forms deeply rooted in our collective consciousness.