Blog 1 (Critical)

CRITICAL – In your own words describe the key differences between the portraits of George Washington and George III illustrated earlier in this blog.

Both images have a variety of similarities that connect them, mainly due to the fact they were both painted in a similar time period, by Anglo-American-British individuals. For starters, both George Washington and King George are depicted with the right hand on the hip, as well as the left hand resting on something nearby. I believe this to be the culture of the time and a common pose used to portray individuals in paintings. Aside from the pose however, a comparison of the two portraits reveals some key differences. The first noticeable difference is the gaze of each individual. King George is depicted gazing into the distance, which has a sort of pompous and royal affect. There is something distinctly English about it, almost as if he is looking away from his subjects, into the distance of vast British empire. George Washington on the other hand is depicted looking directly at the painter, which gives him a humble and relatable look, as if he is a leader of the people. His knowing eyes carry wisdom and strength. Washingtons countenance also appears to be more rugged and humble, as opposed to the royal and regal appearance of King George. Washington is dressed in simple military attire, which affirms he is a man of the people, a fighter, a striver, one who struggles with his subjects. George on the other hand is arrayed in fine gold linen, flowing silk and grand attire. One speaks of royalty, the other of humility. The colouring of each portrait as well as the backgrounds are also of stark contrast. The colours used to portray Washington are dark and drab whilst the background is cloudy and includes a man with a horse. The colours used to portray King George are of grandeur and magnificence, pink, gold, red and blue, with a background of flowing curtains and Roman pillars. In the portrait of King George, the sunlight is shining directly on him, highlighting him as the centre of the painting. On Washingtons portrait however, their seems to be an absence of light, highlighting the entire scene as relevant, not Just Washington. The image of Washington shows a departure from the traditional art of the English, that was of royalty, perfection and decadence. The art of America, clearly evolves here to be one of truth, of realism and of relevance.