Merkel portrait to be unveiled, former chancellor reflects on becoming history

A new portrait of former German Chancellor Angela Merkel is set to be unveiled, capturing the likeness of the long-serving leader. The artwork, created by the relatively unknown 28-year-old Franco-German artist Jérémie Queyras, will be officially revealed at the Bode Museum in Berlin.

The portrait is destined for the Chancellery's gallery in Berlin, joining the official depictions of Merkel's seven predecessors. A space has been reserved for it next to the portraits of Gerhard Schröder. Before its permanent installation, the painting will be exhibited at the Bode Museum for three months, located near Merkel's own residence.

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It's strange when you slowly become history. Well, then I'll hang there.

Merkel, who stepped down nearly five years ago, has taken her time in allowing herself to be immortalized in art. After leaving office, she focused on other pursuits, including writing her bestselling memoirs and undertaking a book tour. Known more for her political acumen than her art patronage, the portrait did not appear to be a high priority for her.

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A luminous portrait it has become. (...) Her gaze is bright, but the former chancellor does not want to appear too comforting.

Queyras, who had previously applied to paint Merkel's portrait, wrote a personal letter to her. Merkel reportedly invited him for a conversation in April 2025, finding him to be an "open-minded person." The artist described the resulting portrait as "luminous," noting that Merkel's gaze is bright but avoids appearing overly placid.

Reflecting on the process, Merkel shared her feelings about the artwork: "It's strange when you slowly become history. Well, then I'll hang there." The painting will be publicly displayed until early October before moving to the Chancellery.

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An open-minded person.