Author Description

Reliving the controversy that reigned in 1944 after William Dobell's portrait of artist Joshua Smith was awarded the Archibald Prize, Australia's premier prize for portraiture, this book describes the curious history of this famous painting. The passionate debate that the painting inspires even today and the long unanswered question of whether this was a portrait or an unkind caricature are covered in detail. Also included is the story of the fire that nearly destroyed it and its remarkable restoration. Other early works by this great, enigmatic Australian artist are showcased as well.