How to comment on iconographic documents

1 -  Identify the picture:

·         Its nature: A poster, a photograph, a cartoon, a painting (its style if you know it)

          Mention the artist. Present him if possible.

·         What is the title of the document? (eventually, comment on it)

·         When was the document painted,  and where can it be seen nowadays

2 -  Describe and locate the main elements

• Find the constructive force lines of the painting
• Locate in relation to the frame: “At the top, at the bottom, on the left-hand side, in the upper right corner, in the lower left-hand corner, in the middle …”
• Locate in relation to perspective: “in the foreground, in the middle ground, in the background”
• Don’t forget the colors…

3 -  Explain the  picture  according to your knowledge of the period

4 -  As a conclusion, you may explain what message is conveyed by the document or the purpose it has.

5 - You might be asked to give your opinion.