The artwork, titled “Manuel Garcia,” was crafted by the esteemed artist John Singer Sargent between the years 1904 and 1905. Executed with oil on canvas, this piece is a quintessential example of the Realism movement. Measuring 138.1 by 96.5 cm, it falls under the genre of portraiture and is presently housed at the Rhode Island School of Design Museum (RISD Museum) in Providence, Rhode Island, USA.
This portrait is a compelling depiction of an elderly gentleman, likely “Manuel Garcia,” seated against a stark, dark background which accentuates his dignified presence. The subject is attired in formal clothing, with a dark suit and a white shirt collar peeking through. His expression is contemplative, and his gaze is directed towards the left, away from the viewer. The use of light and shadow is exemplary, highlighting the texture of his skin and the folds of his clothing, bringing forth a lifelike quality to the figure. The painting’s meticulous attention to detail, especially in rendering the hands and facial features, showcases Sargent’s masterful prowess in portraiture.