This exhibition is no longer on view at the National Gallery.

Whether used to commemorate the deceased, project an image of power, or bring to life a figure from history, portraits are more than mere depiction. Using portraits found in books, this exhibition explored the relationship between artist and sitter and a few of the ways that portraits are used to document lives, tell stories, and make propaganda.

Organization: The exhibition was organized by the National Gallery of Art. Jacob Lewis, library intern, was curator. 

Passes: Admission is always free and passes are not required