Fat Lady

The portrait guarding the entrance to Gryffindor Tower serves as both protector and entertainer for the house’s students. This painted figure presents herself as a plump woman dressed in a flowing pink silk gown, her personality as vibrant as her appearance. She takes her role as gatekeeper seriously, refusing entry to anyone who cannot provide the correct password, yet maintains a theatrical flair that makes even routine encounters memorable.

Her dedication to security became dramatically apparent during Harry Potter’s third year at Hogwarts, when she refused entry to Sirius Black despite his violent attempts to break into Gryffindor Tower. The attack left her canvas badly damaged, forcing her to flee to other portraits throughout the castle for safety. This incident demonstrated both her courage and the very real dangers that magical portraits can face.

Beyond her security duties, she exhibits a passion for singing, though her vocal performances often prove more enthusiastic than skilled. Students frequently encounter her practising scales or attempting operatic pieces, particularly during the Christmas holidays when she has consumed rather too much wine. Her musical ambitions occasionally interfere with her primary responsibilities, as she sometimes becomes distracted by her performances.

The portrait represents a fascinating example of magical art in the wizarding world, maintaining her own personality, memories, and relationships with the living students who pass through her domain. Her interactions with Gryffindor house members reveal both protective instincts and a genuine interest in their daily lives, making her far more than a simple security measure.