E. F.S.Buxton's Portaiture of Gandhi

 The Portraiture of Gandhi by Buxton in 1931

by Akhilesh Jha

‘The Saturday Review of Politics, Literature, Science and Arts’ (popularly known as ‘Saturday Review’), a London-based weekly magazine that catered to readers of politics, culture, and ideas, published on 12th September 1931 a full-page portrait of Mahatma Gandhi by E. F. S. Buxton in its column titled “Impression.” Gandhi was in London at that time to attend the Second Round Table Conference, and Buxton’s caricature captured both the spirit of the moment and the moral force of Gandhi’s presence.

Executed in monochrome, the portrait in a caricature form achieves remarkable depth through the delicate transition from light to shade. This play of tone becomes a metaphor for the duality at the heart of Gandhi’s philosophy — the interplay of truth (satya) and struggle. The simplicity of line and economy of strokes reflect the austerity and restraint that defined Gandhi’s way of life. In the expressive profile, one can sense the quiet pain and strength of a man steadfast in his pursuit of non-violence. The balanced composition and rhythmic contour lend the image a meditative calm. Notably, Buxton’s rendering of Gandhi’s hair combines the suggestion of the Buddha’s ushnisha with echoes of Gandhi’s South African experience — symbolizing both spiritual enlightenment and the struggle for freedom of the oppressed.

This portraiture stands as a visual embodiment of satya and ahimsa, the very ideals that brought Gandhi to London for what would be his last visit. Buxton’s tribute, published in “Impression,” also marked the final appearance of this column, which had begun on 25th April 1931. It succeeded earlier columns such as “Portrait” by Frank Slater (from December 1930) and “Cartoon,” under which a portrait of the cricketer Duleepsinhji appeared on 2nd August 1930. With Gandhi’s image, this tradition of visual commentary in the Saturday Review came to an end.

The magazine itself, launched in November 1855, ceased publication in July 1938, but it left behind a long and distinguished legacy. Among its most memorable artistic impressions remains Buxton’s timeless portrayal of Gandhi — serene, resolute, and profoundly human.

About the Author 

Akhilesh Jha is a renowned Gramophone Historian and Civil Servant working in the Ministry of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj.