Francis Bacon

Sitterback to top

• Francis Bacon (1909-1992), Painter. Sitter associated with 32 portraits.

Artistback to top

• Cecil Beaton (1904-1980), Photographer, designer and writer. Artist associated with 1051 portraits, Sitter associated with 314 portraits.

This portraitback to top

This portrait is part of a series showing Bacon in his studio at Overstrand Mansions in Battersea, where Bacon would wipe his paint-spattered hands on the curtains. Bacon had begun a portrait of Beaton in 1957. It took over two years to complete, and it may be that this photograph was taken during a later sitting. When the portrait was completed Beaton was shocked and disappointed at his portrayal 'the hands were clasped and consisted of emerald green scratches that resembled claws'. Realising Beaton's reaction, Bacon swiftly destroyed the picture with great good-humour.

Subject/Themeback to top

• Artists and their studios