When I was first working out the background and story of this painting I wanted to do something that had impact. Something very emotional that really came through in the subject's facial expression. I began thinking about sadness, humiliation, and just the kind of rawness that you can really read on a person's face when they find themselves in a position they really wish they weren't in. So, for some reason I began thinking of court jesters-"fools"; people who seemed to exist for the amusement of others. In my research, though, I discovered that jesters and fools were actually very highly regarded at court, had the king's ear, and basically got away with things that no other person, regardless of their rank or station, would ever be permitted to get away with. So....what to do when history doesn't cooperate with the story you're trying to tell? Bend it, shape it, and tell it anyway! So here is this man-browbeaten, humiliated, and sad. Picture him as that fool who, for whatever reason, has fallen out of favor with the king. He was once in a position of influence and regarded warmly by the master he once served. No more. Read his face and see the dejection and sadness he now has to bear. This piece is done on a 16x20 canvas that will require a frame. I am currently looking for a suitable frame for this piece-if I do find one, it will be included with the piece, however it is your option to purchase it without a frame.