This page provides an organized record of the winners of the Archibald Prize, the annual Australian award presented for excellence in portraiture. The compilation lists the artists who have received the prize and typically gives the title of the winning work and the identity of the sitter when available.

Overview

The Archibald Prize has been awarded annually since its establishment in the early 20th century and is one of Australia’s best known art prizes. This list collects the first‑place recipients for each year, noting when the winner was a self‑portrait, when multiple artists shared the prize, or when other special circumstances affected the award. Because many winning images are under copyright, direct reproductions are not always available; links to images are included when legally allowed.

How the list is organised

  1. Year — the calendar year in which the prize was awarded.
  2. Artist — the name of the person who painted the winning work.
  3. Title — the title given to the painting by the artist.
  4. Subject — the person depicted; an indication if the painting is a self‑portrait.
  5. Image/Notes — where available, a link to an image or a short note on copyright, contestation, or other relevant context.

Notes on content and copyright

Many winners' portraits are protected by copyright held by the artists or their estates. Where an image is shown it is because a public reproduction has been cleared for use; otherwise the entry will include a textual description and, where possible, a link to an authorised reproduction. The list aims to be factual and does not attempt to reproduce copyrighted artwork without permission.

Using this list

  • Researchers and readers can use the chronological entries to trace changes in style, subject choice, and the prize’s cultural impact.
  • Each entry is intended to provide enough information to identify the artwork and locate further details in gallery catalogues or institutional records.
  • For fuller context on the prize itself, including its rules and administration, consult the main article on the Archibald Prize and general discussions of portraiture.

Scope and limitations

This list focuses exclusively on the winning entries (first place) for each year. It does not attempt to be a comprehensive catalogue of all finalists, shortlisted works, or other awards associated with the Archibald Prize. Entrants and readers should be aware that some historical records can be incomplete or subject to revision when new archival material becomes available.