Gaspard Meyer or The Man in the Red Waistcoat (1795) by Jacques-Louis David

Gaspard Meyer or The Man in the Red Waistcoat - Jacques-Louis David - 1795

Artwork Information

TitleGaspard Meyer or The Man in the Red Waistcoat
ArtistJacques-Louis David
Date1795
Mediumoil,canvas
Dimensions116 x 89.5 cm
Art MovementNeoclassicism
Current LocationLouvre, Paris, France

About Gaspard Meyer or The Man in the Red Waistcoat

The artwork “Gaspard Meyer or The Man in the Red Waistcoat” was created by the renowned artist Jacques-Louis David in 1795. This oil on canvas portrait embodies the essence of the Neoclassicism art movement, with its depiction of the dignified and poised subject. Measuring 116 x 89.5 cm, the artwork presents as a genre of portraiture and is housed at the Louvre in Paris, France.

In the artwork, we observe an individual, portrayed in a half-length pose, commanding attention with his direct gaze towards the viewer. He is elegantly attired in the fashion of the period, wearing a bright red waistcoat which contrasts strikingly with his dark blue coat, creating an arresting visual focal point. The crisp white of his shirt and ruffled cravat further emphasizes his refined demeanor. The subject’s powdered hair is styled according to the conventions of the time and complements the formality of his dress.

His hand rests casually yet authoritatively upon a piece of furniture, which appears to be a wooden table or desk intricately adorned with decorative elements, indicative of his status or profession. The furniture subtly hints at neoclassical design, aligning with the artwork’s historical context. Alongside the subject, we observe an open document held by his other hand, suggesting he may be engaged in intellectual or administrative pursuits. In the background, the neutral tones provide a stark backdrop that further accentuates the figure and his attire, a classic technique of portraiture to draw attention to the subject and their attributes.

Overall, the artwork conveys a sense of calm assurance and a portrayal of the subject’s character consistent with Neoclassical ideals of clarity, order, and harmony. Jacques-Louis David’s meticulous attention to detail and his ability to capture the essence of his subjects is fully exemplified in this notable portrait.

Other Artwork from Jacques-Louis David

More Neoclassicism Artwork

Scroll to Top