The artwork titled “Father of the Artist,” created by Paul Cezanne in 1865, is a portrait rendered in oil on canvas. This piece, belonging to the Romanticism movement, can be found at the National Gallery in London, UK. It provides an intimate view of the artist’s father, depicting a compelling figure engaged in reading.
The artwork captivates the viewer through its intimate portrayal of the figure. The subject, presumably the artist’s father, is absorbed in reading a large paper or possibly a broadsheet. He is depicted seated, leaning forward slightly, with his elbows resting on his thighs to support the reading material. The warmth of the subject’s face and hands stands out against the cooler, darker tones of his clothing and the surrounding environment, creating a focal point that draws the viewer in. The chiaroscuro effect used by Cezanne highlights the contours of the face and hands, emphasizing the depth of concentration and perhaps even the weight of thought depicted in this quiet and personal moment.
Noticeably, the environment is rendered with a rather stark contrast. There is an absence of intricate background detail, which places a greater emphasis on the subject himself. The use of bold colors, such as the bright red of the floor tiles, contrasts with the deep blacks and browns, further enhancing the emotional intensity typically attributed to Romanticism. This mesmerizing portrayal not only reflects the personal relationship between the artist and his father but also serves as an example of Cezanne’s early work, which would later evolve into a more distinct Post-Impressionist style.
