The artwork “Man with Crossed Arms” is a noteworthy creation by artist Paul Cezanne, dating to circa 1900. It is executed in oil on canvas, conforming to the Post-Impressionism art movement, and the portrait genre. The dimensions of the artwork are 36 1/4 x 28 5/8 inches (92 x 72.7 cm). It is currently housed in the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, located in New York City, New York, United States.
The artwork presents a male figure seated against a nondescript, muted background. His arms are crossed, suggesting a contemplative or reserved demeanor. Cezanne’s brushwork is visible, with the use of thick and abrupt strokes that give the figure a sense of solidity and presence. The color palette is subdued, relying heavily on earth tones to model the figure, which stands in contrast to what appears to be a cooler, more abstract background. This particular piece exemplifies the artist’s departure from the realistic representation and his venture into exploring the interplay of form, color, and light, characteristic of Post-Impressionistic art. While the identity of the sitter is not conveyed, the intense gaze and the positioning of his hands convey a psychological depth, inviting viewers to ponder the inner thoughts of the subject. The manner in which Cezanne has captured the figure’s posture and expression reflects his innovative approach to portraiture.
