President Frank Underwood Added to National Portrait Gallery at 'House of Cards' Season Premiere

Attendees got a treat at the Smithsonian's surprise unveiling.

February 23, 2016, 11:10 AM

— -- Those skeptical of Oscar Wilde’s argument that “life imitates art far more than art imitates life” need look no further than the Washington, D.C., premiere on Monday night for the fourth season of “House of Cards."

Attendees got a special treat at the event, hosted by the Smithsonian's National Portrait Gallery, when the museum unveiled a new portrait of President Frank Underwood.

The painting depicts the devious lead in Netflix’s smash political drama played by actor Kevin Spacey -- a favorite among fans for fictional commanders-in-chief.

What's more, Spacey attended the private presentation -- and spoke to its guests -- in character as President Underwood.

“I’m pleased that the Smithsonian continues to prove itself as a worthwhile institution,” Spacey said while playing Underwood at the event, according to the Smithsonian. “I’m one step closer to convincing the rest of the country that I am the president.”