The artwork entitled “Portrait of Camille Daurelle” was created by Gustave Caillebotte in 1877. The medium chosen for this piece is pastel, and it exemplifies the Impressionistic movement to which Caillebotte belonged. It measures 40 x 32 cm and is classified as a portrait. Currently, the artwork is housed within a private collection.
The artwork depicts a youthful subject, presumed to be Camille Daurelle, portrayed with subdued detailing that is characteristic of Impressionism. Caillebotte’s use of pastel has allowed for a gentle blend of colors, which imbue the portrait with a sense of vitality and immediacy. The subject is rendered with a delicate touch, especially evident in the facial features, which are composed of soft hues of pink and light blue, creating an almost ethereal effect. The figure’s attire suggests a formality, punctuated by a dark bow that draws the viewer’s eye. The background is minimalistic, with a contrastingly vibrant green that encloses the subject while accentuating their presence. Overall, the artwork is suggestive, rather than explicit, in its detail, allowing the emotional resonance of the subject to quietly emerge from the canvas.
