Because there was no information present on this particular piece of art, doing a formal analysis is somewhat difficult. But I would venture to guess that this painting was created sometime during Simon Bolivar’s reign and most likely in oil painting on a primed canvas. The style in which the artist chose to portray Bolivar is classic, giving much attention to the actual likeness of Bolivar and representation of the flags in the background; giving each motion and a sense of realism. The colors I find to be quite appropriate for the nature of the image. Warm tones for a South American Hero, inviting yet bold, saying “this is who I am, and this is what I stand for.”
This artwork is about portraying Simon Bolivar in a strong manner. The display of flags behind him, waving freely, symbolizes the freedom and unity Bolivar wished for Latin America. Like I said, I found many images of Bolivar’s torso and what not but this image with the flags is an honest and accurate representation of what Bolivar stood for, and fought for. I feel this way because of the way the artist incorporated the flags, they are not just stagnate objects in the background, but seem to have a life of their own.
If there is one thing I would like to know about this work it would be the same thing I ask about the majority of the work I write about; who painted it!? Very little information is provided about these fabulous pieces of art, and I feel it is a shame because the art of the time plays a significant role in how we perceive the attitudes of that particular period being portrayed.
