Painting:
Opening of the First Parliament of the Commonwealth of Australia by H.R.H. The Duke of Cornwall and York (Later King George V), May 9, 1901(1903)
By Tom Roberts (1856–1931)
Oil on canvas, 304.5 x 509.2 cm
On permanent loan to the Parliament of Australia from the British Royal Collection. Courtesy of Parliament House Art Collection, Department of Parliamentary Services, Canberra ACT

Here is another example of using art as evidence in studying the past.

Tom Roberts is one of Australia's most famous artists.

Several of his paintings are considered to be 'icons' of Australian history.

In 1901, Melbourne celebrated the opening of the first Federal Parliament. Tom Roberts' painting is a commemoration of that event — and is an extremely important and famous painting. Look at this painting.

1. What does the painting show?

2. Why do you think it shows these people and things?

3. Do you think it is realistic like a photograph, or has the artist changed the scene to make a point?

4. Is it 'good' history? Consider these aspects:

• What overall feeling is conveyed? How?
  
• What can you say about the class and/or the occupations of the people shown?
  
• How representative are they of general society at the time?
  
• Why isn't there a greater cross-section of people shown?
  
• What is the role of women in the painting?
  
• Which two women seem to have the highest profile?
  
• Why do you think they have been given this high profile?
  
• What is the significance of the flags?
  
• What impressions do you have of the location of the event?
  
• How does it add to the impact of the event?
  
• Who or what might have influenced the painter?

Photograph: Opening of the First Parliament, ExhibitionBuilding, Melbourne (1901)
National Library of Australia

5. Now compare this painting with a photograph of the same event. What are the main similarities and differences?

Painting: The Opening of Federal Parliament (1901)
by Charles Nuttall (1873–1934)
Museum Victoria
MN 574

6. Now compare it with another painting of the same event. This one was painted by the same person who took the photograph that you have seen. What are the main similarities and differences between all three?

7. Can we really know what the opening of the first Federal Parliament in 1901 looked like? Discuss your answer.