“Arrangement in Light Pink and Black: Portrait of Théodore Duret” is an artwork created by James McNeill Whistler in 1883. The piece is executed in oil on canvas and belongs to the Realism art movement. The portrait measures 193.5 by 91 centimeters and showcases its genre through a striking depiction of an individual.
The artwork presents a full-length portrait of a man standing against a muted background. The subject is dressed in formal attire, consisting of a black suit, white shirt, and black bowtie, exuding a sense of sophistication. He holds a top hat in one hand and a light pink and black cloak in the other, incorporating the titular colors into the composition. The cloak’s soft folds create a contrast with the stark darkness of the suit, drawing the viewer’s attention. The background is relatively plain, which further emphasizes the subject’s presence and the intricate detailing of his attire. The overall mood is one of quiet dignity and contemplation, consistent with the Realism movement’s focus on depicting everyday life with truth and accuracy.
