Portrait of Harry Clarke by Margaret Clarke
National Gallery of Ireland Collection
Entitled Posthumous portrait of Harry Clarke and dated circa 1931, this sensitive portrait of the famous Irish stained glass artist was painted by his wife Margaret after his death at aged 41.
Based on sketches made from life while visiting her husband during his treatment in a sanatorium in Davos, Switzerland, the artist has captured her husband’s quiet charm and introspection, his large, dark eyes and graceful demeanour. It conveys a sense of tenderness, sincerity and her strong personal connection with sitter.
Famous Paintings and their Hidden Histories
Autumn 2026
Artist and art teacher Áine Andrews brings us behind the hidden histories of six more famous paintings. In each lecture, Áine will focus on a particular painting to recount its history, as well as that of the artist and their story.
