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Portrait of Hone Heke

William Duke

1846

oil

canvas

From the collection of National Library of Australia

Early 19th Century Portrait

Dominant colour

About this work

This portrait depicts a man with dark skin and black hair, adorned with white feathers. His face features traditional Māori tattoos, and he wears a white fur cloak. The background is a solid dark brown color. The subject's gaze is directed to the right side of the image, and his expression appears serious. The overall atmosphere of the painting is somber and dignified. The use of oil paint and the dark background create a sense of depth and contrast, drawing attention to the subject's face and tattoos. To learn more about the artist behind this portrait, explore the works of William Duke.

About the artist

Artist

William Duke

William Charles Duke (1814 – 17 October 1853) was an Irish-born Australian artist remembered primarily for his portraits of several Māori leaders, and as a "journeyman painter of lively marine oil paintings of whaling, commissioned by Hobart shipowners".

See the richer artist page