A new portrait of former German Chancellor Angela Merkel was unveiled in Berlin on Friday, July 3, 2026. The painting, created by French artist Jérémie Quayras, was presented at the German Historical Museum in Berlin.
Artist and artwork details
Jérémie Quayras, known for his photorealistic style, spent several months working on the portrait. The artwork depicts Merkel in a contemplative pose, with a subtle smile and her hands clasped. According to the museum, the painting measures 2.5 meters by 2 meters and is painted in oil on canvas.
Merkel's reaction
Merkel attended the unveiling ceremony and expressed her appreciation for the portrait. "I am very moved by this work," she said according to a statement from the museum. "It captures a moment of reflection that I recognize."
Significance of the portrait
The portrait is part of a series of works by Quayras depicting world leaders. The museum noted that the painting will be on permanent display in the museum's contemporary history section. The unveiling comes as Merkel's legacy continues to be debated in Germany and abroad.
