Head of Jean-Baptiste Faure (1830–1914)

Description

Head of Jean-Baptiste Faure presents the sitter in a close view, with a softly lit face and full beard emerging from a warm brown background. His turned head and steady gaze contrast with the lightly indicated clothing below.

Edouard Manet concentrates detail in the face while leaving the shoulder and lower ground open and sketch-like. The contrast between finished features and exposed surface makes the painter’s process visible and gives the portrait a direct, immediate character.