The painting was presented to churchill by both houses of parliament at a public ceremony in westminster hall on his 80th birthday 30 november 1954.
Winston churchill painting 80th birthday portrait. Secret of winston churchill s unpopular sutherland portrait revealed. Portrait is a work of graham sutherland one of the most famous and most controversial artist at the time and it is 80th birthday. Was commissioned by members of the house of commons and house of lords to mark sir winston s 80th birthday. He finishes and portrait of sir winston churchill is unveiled.
In 1954 the english artist graham sutherland was commissioned to paint a full length portrait of sir winston churchill the 1 000 guinea fee for the painting was funded by donations from members of the house of commons and house of lords. At the birthday celebrations at westminster hall in november 1954 churchill was presented with a portrait by graham sutherland commissioned by past and present members of the house of commons and the house of lords.