Oil Portrait Size
& Pricing Guidelines
The following examples provide general pricing estimates based on a variety of portrait sizes and compositions. Because every commission is unique, the final cost may vary depending on the size, complexity, and overall design of the painting. Please review the information below for a more detailed explanation of the factors that influence pricing.
Cost Estimates for Commissioned Oil Portraits
Vignette Oil Portrait
Starting at $5000
Larger format pricing on request
A vignette portrait gives a more spontaneous feel to the portrait subject since only the face is fully resolved, with the remaining areas taken to less of a finished state, so that the painting feels as though it is in the process of being worked on. It is most often used for portraying children, but can also be applied to larger formats.
Head and Shoulders
Estimated Starting Price:
$10,000
A fully resolved rendition of the sitters head and upper chest. Sometimes a hand may also be included. This format is appropriate for a smaller space or as part of a larger grouping. Generally, this portrait is painted with a tonal background since the inclusion of addition elements may compete with the subject.
1/2 Length Figure
Estimated Starting Price: $15,000
A half figure portrait offers greater compositional potential, since more of the sitter's figure is showing. The body language and positioning will better communicate the sitter's personality. The inclusion of one or both hands can convey more character, still. There is also the opportunity to add a meaningful prop or background element.
3/4 Length Figure
Estimated Starting Price: $20,000
This format offers a great opportunity to create a unique and interesting composition that immediately calls for attention, if you have the wall space. The pose becomes a far more significant compositional element. The portrait may also include props, as well as more involved and specific background elements to greatly add to the narrative.
Full Figure Oil Portrait
Estimated Starting Price: $25,000
This is the most impressive of all the single figure portrait formats. The added scale of the art, when wall space permits, will create a noteworthy focal point in any room. This is how people of nobility and stature are customarily represented. An expansive background can be used to further increase your portrait's dimensions.
Multi-figure Oil Portrait
Pricing available upon request.
A multi-figure portrait opens up all manner of interesting pictorial possibilities and narrative scenarios. It can range from a depiction of two subjects to much larger and complex groupings —be they familial or professional. Themes from naturalistic to imaginative and surreal can be realized.
View Full PortraitPortrait Pricing Factors
Every portrait is unique, which is why pricing can vary considerably from one commission to another. The single greatest factor affecting cost is the amount of time required to create the painting.
Each portrait requires a substantial investment of time. Depending on the size and complexity of the commission, Marvin may spend hundreds of hours—or in some cases thousands of hours—bringing a painting to completion. He works without assistants and personally executes every aspect of the portrait himself.
The number of subjects included in the painting is another major consideration. Additional family members, children, pets, or animals increase both the complexity and the time required to complete the portrait.
Marvin generally prefers to work life-size or slightly smaller whenever possible, as he believes this provides the greatest opportunity for achieving a strong sense of presence and realism. However, smaller portraits can often be produced at a reduced cost. For clients seeking a more economical alternative, vignette-style portraits can also provide an elegant solution while reducing the amount of time required to complete the painting.
Additional Considerations
Framing is not included in the cost of the portrait. However, Marvin is always happy to consult with you or your framer regarding appropriate framing options. Because the frame plays an important role in the final presentation of the portrait, selecting the right frame is very much in the interest of both artist and client.
For clients located outside Marvin's immediate area, travel expenses such as transportation, lodging, and related costs may be billed as incurred when required for sittings, consultations, or installation.
Perhaps the most important consideration is the long-term value of the portrait itself. Unlike most purchases, a portrait is something that will remain part of your life for decades. It becomes a daily presence within your home and, over time, often takes on even greater significance as it becomes part of a family's history.
For that reason, it is wise to balance budgetary concerns against the factors that will ultimately contribute to your long-term satisfaction. A thoughtfully conceived and beautifully executed portrait can provide immense enjoyment not only for you, but also for your family and the generations that follow.
If you have questions regarding your particular circumstances, Marvin welcomes the opportunity to discuss your ideas and help determine the most appropriate approach for your portrait.
