National Portrait Gallery, in London...
8:38 p.m.
Diana, Princess of Wales, by Bryan Organ (1981)
Technique: acrylic on canvas
29/11/23 - The newly renovated National Portrait Gallery (NPG) opened its doors to the public a few days ago and, as befits art pilgrims, a visit is a must. After 3 years of renovation and 41 million pounds, we find the museum with its vast collection elegantly distributed, although in some rooms the lights continue to reflect on the framed photos. A special mention deserves the entrance door, in which artist Tracey Emin chiseled, on the bronze panels, the faces of 45 prominent women.
Visiting the permanent collection is free and although the attendance is overwhelming, visiting the rooms where the portraits of the royal family are exhibited remains the must-see attraction. Nothing better than starting with Princess Diana, who refreshed the image of the Monarchy with her enormous popularity. The above portrait was commissioned to commemorate the announcement of her engagement to the then Prince of Wales. She is shown in the Yellow Drawing Room of Buckingham Palace and the focus is on her trousers (the garment is defined as an advance or radical change in royal portraits).
Conversation at the Royal Lodge, King George VI, Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother, Queen Elizabeth II and Princess Margaret, by Sir James Gunn (1950)
Technique: oil on canvas
King George V (1865-1936); Princess Mary, Countess of Harewood (1894-1965); Prince Edward, Duke of Windsor (1894-1972); Queen Mary (1867-1953) The Royal Family at Buckingham Palace, by Sir John Lavery (1913)
Technique: oil on canvas
The Secret of England’s Greatness (Queen Victoria Presenting a Bible in the Audience Chamber at Windsor), de Thomas Jones Barker (1862-3)
Technique: oil on canvas
Queen Elizabeth I, unknown artist (ca.1600)
The portraits of the royal family reflect particular moments in the history of England, such as the reunion of the family after the Second World War and with a world already at peace, or just before the Great War (World War I), with the King in military dress, or the delivery of a Bible to a man, apparently from Africa, exorcised by the presence of the Queen and her action.
Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh (1921-2021) and Queen Elizabeth II (1926-2022), by Thomas Struth (2011)
Color Photography
Finally one of the last portraits that were taken of the royal couple of Elizabeth and Philip. Photographer Thomas Struth achieved an authentic representation, revealing candor and authenticity, despite the luxury of the house that surrounds them.
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