New Attenborough portrait by Jonathan Yeo unveiled
A new portrait of Sir David Attenborough has been revealed, commemorating his 40-year tenure as a fellow of the Royal Society and celebrating his legacy as a distinguished natural history broadcaster. Created by Jonathan Yeo, known for his recent portrait of King Charles III, this oil painting depicts Sir David seated against a verdant backdrop, gazing directly at the viewer with hands clasped around his knee.
Describing Yeo as a “master,” Sir David expressed his delight at being included in the Royal Society’s esteemed collection, calling the portrait “extraordinary.” Unveiled on BBC’s The One Show, Sir David reflected on his lifelong dedication to exploring and communicating the intricate beauty and fragility of the natural world, a privilege made possible by the collaboration of natural history filmmakers and scientists.
Yeo, renowned for his portraits of figures like Sir Tony Blair and Malala Yousafzai, expressed his deep honor in painting Sir David, whom he described as a personal inspiration. He highlighted the joy and privilege of spending extensive time with someone of Sir David’s profound wisdom and engaging presence.
In contrast to the striking red background of his portrait of King Charles III, Yeo chose an “ambiguous natural green background” for Sir David, evoking the diverse habitats Sir David has documented throughout his illustrious career. Knighted in 1983 for his pioneering efforts in public engagement with science, Sir David’s portrait stands as a testament to his enduring impact on natural history and conservation.
The Royal Society said the new portrait celebrates the role Sir David continues to play in educating audiences everywhere on climate change and biodiversity.
Its head of library and archives, Keith Moore, said the body was “thrilled” to have the portrait as part of their collections.
“The Royal Society has many pictures of great scientists,” he said, listing the likes of Isaac Newton, Charles Darwin, Albert Einstein and Dorothy Hodgkin.
“But I’d defy you to find anyone who has touched as many people’s lives in explaining the ideas behind great science, and how they affect our world, as Sir David Attenborough. He’s one of a kind.”
The portrait will be on public display at the Royal Society from 2 July.
