PTE Academic · Write Essay

Tradition and Evolution in Portraiture

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  • PTE Academic
1

Capturing Character in Portrait Painting

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You will have 20 minutes to plan, write and revise an essay about the topic below. Your response will be judged on how well you develop a position, organise your ideas, present supporting details, and control the elements of standard written English. You should write 200–300 words.

Some critics argue that the primary purpose of a painted portrait is to achieve an accurate physical likeness of the subject, while others believe its true value lies in revealing their psychological depth and character. To what extent do you agree or disagree? Support your position with relevant examples.

0 words · target 200–300 · 20 minutes in the test · spell-check is off, as in the test

Questions 2–3

You will have 20 minutes to plan, write and revise an essay about the topic below. Your response will be judged on how well you develop a position, organise your ideas, present supporting details, and control the elements of standard written English. You should write 200–300 words.

Read them here; log in to answer and check them.

2

State Portraiture in Modern Governance

Many public institutions continue the long-standing tradition of commissioning formal oil portraits of political leaders and civic officials. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of using public funds for this type of commemorative art.

3

Painted Self-Portraits and Digital Photography

In an era dominated by smartphone photography and social media, some people believe that traditional painted self-portraiture has become obsolete, whereas others maintain it retains an irreplaceable cultural value. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

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