The artwork titled “Portrait of Alphonse Leroy” is an oil on canvas painting by the renowned artist Jacques-Louis David, completed in the year 1783. Reflecting the Neoclassicism art movement, this portrait measures 72 x 91 cm and is categorized within the genre of portraiture. The piece is housed in the Musée Fabre, located in Montpellier, France. The artwork exemplifies the clear lines and classical ideals espoused by Neoclassical artists.
In the artwork, the subject, Alphonse Leroy, is depicted in a half-length pose seated at a desk, giving an impression of a candid and intimate moment. He is portrayed with a quill in hand, suggesting that he was interrupted while writing. His attire consists of a red coat and a white shirt, the sleeves slightly ruffled at the wrists, indicative of the styles of the period. Across his head is a turban of blue, white, and red fabric, adding a touch of eccentricity and personal flair to the portrait. The figure’s gaze meets the viewer’s, with an expression that carries a mix of contemplation and engagement.
The composition includes not only the sitter but also several objects that surround him, contributing to the narrative of the artwork. To the left, scientific apparatus is carefully rendered, signaling the individual’s profession or interests, which are likely medical or scientific, given the identity of Alphonse Leroy as a physician. A stack of books lies before him on the table, reinforcing his scholarly milieu. The attention to detail in both the rendering of textures—such as the velvet-like appearance of the coat and the intricate fabric of the turban—and the realistic depiction of the various elements is a testament to David’s mastery and the Neoclassical pursuit for clarity and restraint. Overall, the artwork is steeped in the cultural and intellectual aura of its time, offering a glimpse into the Enlightenment’s veneration of reason, learning, and classical virtues.