The artist generally attempts a representative portrayal, as Edward Burne-Jones stated, "The only expression allowable in great portraiture is the expression of character and moral quality, not anything temporary, fleeting, or accidental." As Aristotle stated, "The aim of Art is to present not the outward appearance of things, but their inner significance for this, not the external manner and detail, constitutes true reality." Artists may strive for photographic realism or an impressionistic similarity in depicting their subject, but this differs from a caricature which attempts to reveal character through exaggeration of physical features.
#MEDIEVAL PORTRAITURE FULL#
In addition to painting, portraits can also be made in other media such as prints (including etching and lithography), photography, video and digital media.Īnthony van Dyck, Charles I in Three Positions, 1635–1636, shows profile, full face and three-quarter views, to send to Bernini in Rome, who was to sculpt a bust from this model.Ī well-executed portrait is expected to show the inner essence of the subject (from the artist's point of view) or a flattering representation, not just a literal likeness. Today, portrait paintings are still commissioned by governments, corporations, groups, clubs, and individuals. Over time, however, it became more common for middle-class patrons to commission portraits of their families and colleagues. Historically, portrait paintings have primarily memorialized the rich and powerful. Portraits often serve as important state and family records, as well as remembrances. Portraitists may create their work by commission, for public and private persons, or they may be inspired by admiration or affection for the subject. The term 'portrait painting' can also describe the actual painted portrait. Portrait painting is a genre in painting, where the intent is to represent a specific human subject. See portrait for more about the general topic of portraits.
Self-portrait of Nicolas Régnier painting a portrait of Vincenzo Giustiniani, 1623-24, Fogg Art Museum.