Albert Einstein

Albert Einstein 14 Mar 1879 - 18 Apr 1955

Born Ulm, Germany

As early as 1930, Davidson planned to portray German theoretical physicist Albert Einstein, who was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1921. After Einstein immigrated to America in 1933, Davidson made the portrait at the Institute for Advanced Study in Princeton, New Jersey. During sittings, Einstein discussed a complex mathematical problem with his assistant, Walther Mayer. Einstein and Davidson doubtless also discussed European politics. The following year, Davidson sent him a check to assist European Jews. On Davidson's death in 1952, Einstein wrote, "His passing will be keenly felt as an impoverishment of public life in this time of distrust towards all non-conformists."

Morris P. Leibovitz [1917-1992]; gift to NPG 1978

Credit: National Portrait Gallery, Smithsonian Institution; gift of Dr. Maury Leibovitz