Queen Ntombi Twala 1985

Andy Warhol created this vibrant portrait of Queen Ntombi Twala, a member of the Zulu nation, using his signature pop art style of bold colors and screen printing. Warhol was a master of transforming images into icons, often focusing on celebrities, but here he turned his attention to royalty of a different kind. Warhol's portrait of Queen Ntombi raises questions about representation, identity, and cultural exchange. During the 1980s, Warhol created his "Reigning Queens" series, in which four female monarchs were portrayed. Some people argue that Warhol reinforced a superficial view of powerful women, reducing them to mere images. Others suggest he elevated their status, placing them alongside other famous figures of the time. The bright colors and graphic style flatten the image, yet the Queen's gaze is direct and engaging. This work invites us to consider how we perceive global figures. It also encourages us to reflect on the power dynamics inherent in the act of portraiture.