The artwork “Portrait of Madame Cezanne” is a creation of Paul Cezanne dating back to circa 1885. Executed in oil on canvas, this work is an exemplar of Post-Impressionism, a movement known for its bold colours and expressive brushwork. With dimensions of 46 x 38 cm, the portrait falls into the genre of portraiture and currently resides within a private collection.
The artwork portrays a woman with a measured, contemplative gaze, notable for its psychological depth and complexity. Situated against an understated, pale blue background that accentuates the subject, Cezanne’s brushstrokes imbue the portrait with a sense of vitality and texture. The sitter’s attire is rendered in dark tones, with intricate patterns that suggest the presence of ornate fabric, yet still embodying the artist’s characteristic emphasis on form and structure over detail. The overall composition is intimate, reflecting a directness and sincerity in the artist’s portrayal of the sitter, whose identity is historically significant as the artist’s spouse. Cezanne’s exploration of form and the delicate interplay of light and shadow contribute to the enduring appeal of this portrait, marking it as a notable piece within his illustrious body of work.
