Ivor Novello
- Artist: Claude Harris
- Date: 1920
- Medium: vintage bromide print
- Dimensions: 10in. x 6 7/8in. (272 mm x 174 mm)
- Portrays: Ivor Novello
- Museum: The National Portrait Gallery
- Collection record: The National Portrait Gallery website
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About this artwork
This is a vintage bromide print of Ivor Novello, taken by Claude Harris in the 1920s. In front of us you’ll notice his face lit from the left side with soft shadows that give depth to his hair and moustache. The photo has a warm yellowish tone, typical of early black‑and‑white prints. Ivor was Britain’s “handsomest screen actor” and also sang and composed; his hit “Keep the Home Fires Burning” made him famous during WW I. Harris’s skill with light is clear in this close portrait.
See it in person
Ivor Novello is in the collection of The National Portrait Gallery at St Martin's Place, London — free to enter. Point your phone at any artwork there and audioguide.london plays a free audio guide in six languages — no app download needed.
