The artwork entitled “Achille de Gas as a Naval Cadet (detail)” is an oil on canvas painting by the artist Edgar Degas, created in the year 1857. This piece reflects the Realism art movement, and it can be categorized within the portrait genre. The dimensions of the artwork measure 64.4 by 46.2 centimeters. The painting captures the likeness of a young man dressed in a naval cadet’s uniform, foregrounding Degas’s keen observation and skill in portraying the human figure.
In the artwork, the subject stands against a muted, reddish-brown background that provides a warm contrast to his dark uniform. The young cadet is depicted with a neutral, perhaps contemplative, facial expression and direct gaze that engages the viewer. He dons a naval uniform that is meticulously detailed, from the golden aiguillette draped over his left shoulder to the buttons and belt that cinch his jacket at the waist. His cap is adorned with a badge or emblem, indicating his affiliation with the naval academy. The young man’s posture is somewhat relaxed, with his left hand resting on his hip and his right arm hanging beside him. The artist’s proficiency in rendering both the texture of the fabric and the subtle nuances of light and shadow on the subject’s face is evident. This portrait not only documents the individual’s appearance but also hints at his character and the sense of duty associated with his attire.
