The artwork titled “Don Quixote, View from the Back” was painted by Paul Cezanne circa 1875. This oil on canvas creation belongs to the Impressionist movement and can be classified under the genre of literary painting. It measures 22.2 x 16.5 cm in size and is currently housed in a private collection.
The artwork showcases an energetic and brushy portrayal of the notable literary figure Don Quixote, as seen from the rear perspective. Cezanne’s composition is characterized by vibrant strokes and dabs of color that convey the motion and drama endemic to the tales of the chivalric Don Quixote. The scene appears to be in the midst of action, likely capturing a moment of the character’s adventures. The brushwork is loose and expressive, a hallmark of the Impressionist style that Cezanne was associated with, and it emphasizes the effect of light and atmosphere over detail and precision. The colors are robust yet harmonious, with an interplay of lights and darks that draw the viewer into the dynamic tableau. The use of blues and earthy tones creates a vivid contrast, enhancing the sense of vitality within the scene. It is a work that does not just tell a story but also invites contemplation of form, color, and the very act of painting itself.
