Evolution of portraits

For centuries art has been a medium for immortalizing ones self. The rulers or the rich could have their greatness displayed for all to see, as well as standing the test of time, allowing their legacy to live on. From the Ancient Egyptians to modern Impressionism, how people wanted to represent themselves changed over the years. Many portraits exaggerated the looks of their subject and radiated power, while others were simply capturing an image.

This egyptian statue portrays Amenhotep III as a perfect being, a ruler worthy of divinity.

Coming from 1433, it is thought to be the earliest known panel self-portrait.

Baroque era portrait of the god Bacchus represented in the form of a young man. Moving from portraying humans as gods, to lowering the gods into human form.

Impressionist self portrait of Van Gogh shows more of a humble connection to the world by not attempting to become or destroy a deity. Instead the portrait is trying to capture the moment.

Credits: All media

This user gallery has been created by an independent third party and may not always represent the views of the institutions, listed below, who have supplied the content.

Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium

National Gallery of Art, Washington DC

Kawamura Memorial DIC Museum of Art

Uffizi Gallery

British Museum