'Expressionist' painting of the Queen unveiled in Wales

A new "expressionist-style" portrait of the Queen commissioned by the Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) to mark the 60th anniversary of the Coronation has been unveiled.

The painting by renowned artist Dan Llywelyn Hall was revealed by the First Minister of Wales Carwyn Jones at Cardiff's Millennium Stadium.

The large image shows the Queen sitting in an ornate chair with her hands in her lap and will go on display at the iconic sporting and entertainment arena.

Click here or on "View Images" for a gallery of famous paintings of the Queen

The WRU described the painting as an "imposing three-quarter study painted on a 5ft by 4ft canvas in an expressionist style".

The 32-year-old painter is believed to be the youngest artist to paint a portrait of the Queen, the RFU's patron.

Hall said he was particularly keen to reflect the humanity of his subject and has named his work Icon.

He said: "To have been granted a sitting with the Queen is an ambition fulfilled and it has been an enormous privilege to be asked to create this work.

"As anyone who has ever met Her Majesty will know, it is simply awe-inspiring to be in her presence and I wanted to relay that feeling as well as showing the very human side to the Queen's personality."

The portrait was produced in a few short months after Hall held a sitting with the Queen late last year, in the White Drawing Room at Windsor Castle.

Cardiff-born artist Hall's portraits of First World War veterans Henry Allingham and Harry Patch were recently displayed at Windsor Castle and are now a permanent feature in the Royal Collection.

His work is also on display at the National Gallery of Wales and the Imperial War Museum.

The First Minister said: "In commissioning a Welsh artist for this work, and providing a permanent home at the iconic Millennium stadium, the WRU are recognising the important role they play in our culture and showcasing it to the world."

The portrait has been completed in time for celebrations this year marking the 60th anniversary of the coronation which was held on June 2 1953.

WRU chief executive Roger Lewis said: "The Welsh Rugby Union occupies a unique place in the cultural fabric of Wales.

"Over recent years, the WRU has encouraged young artists to express this relationship in a range of different ways."

He added: "Dan has gained great recognition and critical acclaim as an artist and his work has been displayed extensively throughout the UK.

"To be allowed a private sitting with the Queen, at Windsor Castle, was a special privilege.

"Dan's work will undoubtedly enhance Welsh rugby's commitment to support the talents of our nation."

PA