1851-1919 – Henri Boutet
This is a captivating portrait, rendered in a style that is both delicate and expressive. The medium appears to be pencil on paper, with the strokes capturing the essence of the subject with a sense of immediacy and intimacy. The woman is adorned with a stylish hat, which is intricately detailed, adding a touch of elegance and sophistication to her appearance.
The artist has chosen to depict the model in profile, a choice that allows for a more focused study of her facial features and the emotions she conveys. The hat, with its prominent bow, serves as a focal point, drawing the viewer’s attention and adding a sense of depth to the composition.
The background is minimalistic, with a light beige color that provides a neutral backdrop that further accentuates the subject. The overall mood of the piece is one of quiet introspection, with the woman’s gaze directed inward, suggesting a moment of contemplation or reflection.
The signature and date at the bottom of the image indicate that this artwork was created in 1910, a time when portraiture was a popular genre, and artists were exploring new ways to capture the essence of their subjects. The style of the piece, with its emphasis on line and form, is reminiscent of the Impressionist movement, which sought to capture the fleeting effects of light and color.
In summary, this portrait is a beautiful example of the artist’s skill in capturing the subtleties of human expression and the elegance of the subject’s attire. The use of pencil on paper, the choice of a profile view, and the minimalistic background all contribute to a piece that is both visually striking and emotionally resonant.
