1. In your opinion, do portraits share more about the identity of the sitter or the artist?

2. How do artists depict themselves differently in various parts of the world? What are some reasons for these differences in representation, style, medium and size?

3. What is a power portrait? What are some ways an artist can show power in a power portrait?

4.What is a status portrait? Is the status portrait a type of propaganda?

5. How do artists use iconic symbols to convey images of power and/or status in their portraits? Which symbols are universal, and which are specific to a particular culture? 

Sheila Canby, curator of the exhibition Shah Abbas the remaking of Iran, discusses two very different portraits of Shah 'Abbas giving an insight into his character.

Would you characterize these as power or status portraits? Analyze both portraits and justify your response. Use your knowledge of portraiture. 

Explore how artists like Frida Kahlo, Glenn Ligon, and Andy Warhol investigate and express ideas about identity in their work

Question: How does the iconography express ideas about each artist's identity?

 Pay attention to the following:

1. posture/pose/gesture/facial expression

2. Objects/furniture/ symbols/logos/props

3. Clothing/hair/accessories

4. Background/setting

Let's test your knowledge of the principles of design - Movement, Emphasis and Balance