Originally painted in 2022, this Baroque-style oil painting of my friend and fellow artist utilizes the power of the direct gaze and stable pyramidal composition found in portraits of kings. Its lowered perspective forces the viewer to look up, confront, and be confronted.
Unlike many historical female portraits, Hannah is actively engaged within the composition, and controls our perception of her rather than the other way around. Hannah rests her hand on one of them as though to claim it, or to perhaps tip the scales in its favor.
30x30", oil on canvas