H.R.H. The Prince of Wales 1899

Editor: Here we have Sir William Nicholson's "H.R.H. The Prince of Wales." I'm struck by the bold contrast between light and shadow; it gives the portrait such a graphic quality. What can you tell me about the composition? Curator: The figure's dominance is achieved through stark tonal oppositions and simplification of form. Note how Nicholson employs the flat planes of colour to define shape. The design is economical. Editor: Economical indeed! So much is communicated with such minimal detail. Curator: Precisely. The restricted palette enhances the flatness of the image, further emphasizing its two-dimensionality. The black serves to flatten rather than describe depth. Editor: So the abstraction contributes to the overall power of the image. I see it now, thank you. Curator: Indeed, the power lies in the formal relationships and their impact on visual perception.