Do you think sending a portrait would carry the same weight in today's society? Do you think if the President sent his picture to an ally of the United States, it would reaffirm any relationship? How is it different today? How has society changed its perception of authority?

No, because art has changed greatly throughout the years of time. Portraits now a days have less symbolism represented whereas art dated back carries a traditional feel. I think if the president was to send a picture it would cause an uproar due to the fact of his political views though some may enjoy the gesture. Authority now is depicted as having power over one rather than coming together to make change.