Saturday, January 12, 2013

Unveiling at the National Portrait Gallery

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge arrived to the National Portrait Gallery in central London on January 11, 2013 to view the first official portrait of Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge created by artist Paul Emsley.

As a patron, Kate Middleton worked with the Gallery to select an artist for her first royal portrait.  Together they settled on Paul Emsley. Born in Gasgow and raised in South Africa, Emsley is known for realistic portraits.  His subject matter is normally still lives, animals and haunting portraits.
The portrait of Catherine was in the vein of his previous works; somber and chilling.  This lead to mixed reviews in the media.

Kate was overheard saying "it’s just amazing, absolutely brilliant," while William echoed the same sentiments, "it’s beautiful, it’s absolutely beautiful."

The portrait will be on display at the gallery in Room 37 through September 1, 2013.

The National Portrait Gallery boosts a collection of portraits of historically important and famous British people. It was the first portrait gallery in the world when it opened in 1856.  The gallery is sponsored by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport.

Pictures: Zimbio