The artwork titled “Mercury after Pigalle” was created by the artist Paul Cézanne in 1891. It is executed in pencil on paper, with dimensions of 38 x 29 cm. The piece is associated with the Post-Impressionism movement and falls under the genre of sketch and study. Currently, the artwork is housed at the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York City, NY, US.
The artwork presents a dynamic sketch capturing a human figure, which shows evidence of Cézanne’s draughtsmanship skills. The subject appears to be in a seated position with a focus on the torso, arms, and thighs, conveying both volume and depth through masterful pencil strokes. The outline of the figure is carefully defined, suggesting the artist’s attentiveness to form and pose. The facial features, though lightly sketched, denote an expression that invites contemplation, with the figure’s gaze directed outward. The use of shading and the interplay of light and dark in the artwork provide a three-dimensional quality, indicating Cézanne’s interest in sculptural forms and his exploration of classical themes through his Post-Impressionist lens. Overall, this study represents Cézanne’s investigation into the human form, experimental techniques, and the work ethic of translating traditional subjects into modern artistic expressions.
