Elderly Man Portrait Commission
18″ x 24″, Oil on Canvas, 2004
by Charles C. Clear III
A truly great portrait is more than a mere likeness—it tells a story. It reveals not just the subject’s face, but their journey, their choices, and the weight of their experiences.
Titled Charlie, this portrait captures an elderly man with a face etched by time, a wistful gaze, and an arm adorned with tattoos—remnants of his military service during the Korean War. But his story doesn’t end there. This painting is rich with symbolism, each element carefully chosen to reflect deeper meaning.
The ivy creeping into the scene represents the responsibilities and entanglements that grow over a lifetime. The window, positioned in the direction of his gaze, signifies reflection—looking back on the past with contemplation. The sturdy wood he leans upon serves as a metaphor for the burdens we all carry. Finally, only his right arm is visible, a deliberate choice symbolizing righteousness and the pursuit of what is just.
Through composition and symbolism, Charlie is more than a portrait—it is a narrative, a meditation on life’s trials, choices, and resilience.
Charles C. Clear III
cc@oceanstateart.com