What's The Password?

Sit and stay awhile. And that's probably the exact marching orders the sword-bearing fellow pictured here received! This dramatic watercolor, titled "Guardian of the Harem," was painted by British artist Francis Dicksee. It does not appear this "security professional" is letting anyone in - or out! This work is another featured highlight from The Pantages Portfolio, and is a great example of the breadth, depth, and diversity of this marvelous art collection.

Sir Francis Bernard Dicksee (1853-1928) is best known for his detailed and meticulous paintings featuring literary, historical, and legendary scenes, as well as his portraits of well dressed women. Dicksee's father was an artist who taught him how to paint from an early age on, and was supportive of his work. Dicksee studied at the Royal Academy in his late teens; he would be elected to the Academy in 1891. His work was featured at the first exhibition of the Society of Graphic Art in London in 1921. Dicksee ascended to the Presidency of the Royal Academy in 1924. Just a year later, in 1925, he was knighted, and then named to the Royal Victorian Order by King George V in 1927.