The artwork titled “Portrait of Ernest Cabaner,” created by the renowned artist Edouard Manet in 1880, was composed in Paris, France. This piece, rendered using pastels on canvas, belongs to the Realism art movement and measures 55 by 35 centimeters. It is a portrait genre artwork and is currently housed at the Musée d’Orsay in Paris, France.
In the artwork, the subject, Ernest Cabaner, is depicted with a solemn countenance. The artist employs a subdued palette, primarily dark tones, to capture the depth and gravity of the individual’s expression. Manet’s skillful use of pastels is evident in the delicate yet assertive strokes that define the facial features and attire of Cabaner. The background is void of any detailed setting, directing the viewer’s focus towards the contemplative and introspective nature of the subject, achieved through the masterful interplay of light and shadow. The application of pastel provides a soft texture that enhances the lifelike quality of the portrayal, making it a noteworthy example of Realism in portraiture.