Portraits are a mainstay of the art world, with images of faces appearing in every culture and time. Although the style and medium may vary, all portraits seek to capture the likeness of the subject. Whether it is a formal painting or a quick sketch, the goal is to freeze a moment in time and create a realistic image that will endure long after the subject's death.

The most important element of any portrait is the face. The artist must be able to capture the unique characteristics of the individual, from the shape of the eyes and nose to the contours of the mouth and chin. In addition, the artist must be able to capture the expressions that reveal the inner life of the subject. A portrait may show a person smiling or laughing, but it may also express sadness, anger or even boredom. By capturing these emotions, the artist gives us a glimpse into the soul of the subject.

Portraits can be created using a variety of media, from oil paint and charcoal to clay and photography. Each medium has its strengths and weaknesses, and the artist must choose the one that best suits the subject. For example, a painting can capture intricate detail, while a photograph can provide an immediate likeness. However, regardless of the medium used, all portraits have the same purpose: to give us a glimpse into the life of another human being.

Famous portraits include Leonardo da Vinci's Mona Lisa, Vincent Van Gogh's Self-Portrait with Bandaged Ear, Gustav Klimt's Portrait of Adele Bloch-Bauer I and Johannes Vermeer's Girl with a Pearl.