The pictorial elements that surround
the subject of a portrait serve a variety of functions. The background can be
blank to focus attention on the sitter and on a particular gesture or
expression perceived as characteristic by the portraitist. It can be decorative
and can add to the overall compositional design. Specific information can be
provided by incorporating personal objects into the scene or by photographing in
situ. Finally, the background can serve as a visual metaphor for the
personality or attributes of the sitter. The portraits of Arnold Newman fall
into this last category.

I. M. Pei is a highly respected
successful architect whose architectural firm places great importance on the
careful integration of the structure with its environment. Newman also carefully
orchestrates his photographic composition by setting Pei within the confines of
one of his structures. A delicate balance of space and form is achieved; man
and monument become one. A metaphorical meaning is also realized; Pei's self-abnegation
and rejection of flamboyance to the benefit of architectural integrity find
their parallel in his partially camouflaged portrait.