The artwork “Head of an Old Man” by Paul Cezanne, created circa 1866, is an oil on canvas portrait that measures 51 x 48 cm. Despite it being associated with Romanticism, the painting is within the oeuvre of an artist better known for his contributions to Post-Impressionism. This portrait is currently located at the Musée d’Orsay in Paris, France.
The artwork portrays an elderly gentleman with distinct, weathered features that convey age and experience. The man’s head is slightly tilted to one side, and his expression seems contemplative or calm. Cezanne’s brushwork is visible and vigorous, adding texture and depth to the subject’s face, particularly noticeable in the rendition of his full beard and hair. The color palette is muted, with earthy tones dominating the composition, which starkly contrasts the man’s skin from the darker background. Cezanne’s style, characterized by his distinct brushstrokes and use of color, brings a tactile quality to the artwork, inviting viewers to ponder the subject’s life and thoughts.
