SPYRIDON PROSALENTIS [1830-1895]PORTRAIT OF EUPHROSYNI; DAUGHTER OF G. KARATZAS c. 1876A STUDY ON PORTRAIT WORKA portrait is to show the inner essence of the subject or a representation; not just a literal likeness.Here the artists only expression; allowable in great portraiture is the expression of character; and moral quality. The out come is a serious; closed lip stare; with anything beyond a slight smile being rather rare. there are only two styles of portrait painting: the serious [austerity] and a Archaic smile [Mona-Lisa]. In portrait work a full range of subtle emotions is possible from quiet menace to gentle contentment. However; with the mouth relatively neutral; much of the facial expression needs to be created through the eyes and eyebrows. the eyes are the place one looks for the most complete; reliable; and pertinent information about the subject. And the eyebrows can register; wonder; pity; fright; pain; cynicism; concentration; wistfulness; displeasure; and expectation; in infinite variations and combinations. It is to the one who sees and to interpret. As Aristotle has spoken 鈥楾he aim of Art is to present not the outward appearance of things; but their inner significance; for this; not the external manner and detail; constitutes true reality.'oil on canvasNational Gallery 冒 Alexandros Soutzos Museum