Portrait Of David Hardisty 1966
Oil on canvas, 76x51cm

This is a life-size portrait of Dr David Hardisty, one of Cyril Mann's best friends and a life-long supporter, who acquired some key works for his extensive art collection.

Cyril considered this among the best portraits he ever painted. More than an excellent likeness, it is a contemplative character study of the sitter, in which hints of reflected light on his face, suit and hands create a sense of immediacy and spontaneity.

"I could have made a fortune painting portraits, but don't have the temperament," Cyril Mann admitted. "For one thing, I'm incapable of flattery," he explained.