But, through the use of symbolism, we can learn more about those images in the painting. In Delacroix s portrait of Chopin we are shown the musician s facial features. The painting s message doesn t stop here though. Through the manipulation of the painting s lighting and shadowing, we can only see half of Chopin s face. Symbolically, this might suggest that the subject lead two separate musical lives.
Paintings can also disguise reality though.
Portraits have been created which enhance or beautify the subject. In this respect, paintings give a less perfect view of reality. Thus, I can only conclude that paintings have a higher potential for conveying reality than do pictures.