Alfred, Lord Tennyson

Welcome, everyone! Before you stands "Alfred, Lord Tennyson," a captivating portrait painted in 1840 by the renowned artist Edward Burne-Jones. This remarkable work is part of the esteemed collection of the National Portrait Gallery. nn Notice the intimate scale of the painting; it measures 57.8 centimeters wide and 67.9 centimeters high. The portrait depicts Alfred, Lord Tennyson, a young man with shoulder-length, wavy brown hair, captured in a three-quarter view. His gaze is directed slightly to his right, giving him a pensive and contemplative air. His expression is serious, inviting us to consider the depth of his character. nn The artist employs a warm palette, predominantly browns and reds, creating a rich and inviting atmosphere. The deep reddish-brown background provides a striking contrast to the slightly lighter tones of Tennyson's face and clothing, drawing our eyes directly to the subject. The lighting is soft and diffused, subtly highlighting his features and adding a sense of depth and volume to his face. His attire is dark, a brownish-black, with a visible high-collared shirt or cravat, typical of the period. nn Observe the visible brushstrokes; they contribute to the painting's textured quality, particularly noticeable in the background. The style is painterly and expressive, focusing on capturing Tennyson's likeness and conveying his thoughtful nature rather than achieving photographic precision. The overall effect is a powerful and evocative portrayal of a significant literary figure. I hope you enjoy contemplating this beautiful and insightful work.