Elton John ('On the throne')
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© Suzi Malin
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Elton John ('On the throne')
by Suzi Malin
tempera over gold leaf on gesso prepared board, 1978
16 in. x 13 3/4 in. (406 mm x 349 mm)
Given by Algie Cluff, 1980
Primary Collection
NPG 6563
On display in Room 28 on Floor 2 at the National Portrait Gallery
Sitterback to top
- Sir Elton John (Reginald Kenneth Dwight) (1947-), Singer and composer. Sitter in 11 portraits.
Linked publicationsback to top
- Saywell, David; Simon, Jacob, Complete Illustrated Catalogue, 2004, p. 339
- Tinker, Christopher, Speak its Name! - Quotations by and about Gay Men and Women, 2016, p. 219
Subjects & Themesback to top
Events of 1978back to top
Current affairs
The country is brought to a virtual standstill as workers in the private and public sector strike over the government's decision to restrict wage increases. As more workers joined the strikes rubbish piled up in the streets, petrol stations ran short, and storage space had to be hired for unburied coffins. The period became known as the 'winter of discontent'.Art and science
Louise Brown from Oldham in Greater Manchester becomes the world's first 'test-tube baby'. The 'in vitro' fertilisation procedure was a scientific breakthrough that has given thousands of infertile couples the opportunity to conceive.Iris Murdoch wins the Booker prize with her novel. The Sea, the Sea.
International
Karol Józef Wojtyla becomes Pope John Paul II. He was the only Polish Pope and the first non-Italian Pontiff since the 16th century. During his 26-year pontificate, John Paul was recognised for his efforts to reach out to other religions and his fight against poverty and oppression. He has also, however, been criticised for his conservative attitudes towards divorce, contraception, homosexual marriage and the ordination of women priests.Comments back to top
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