The artwork entitled “Portrait of Zacharie Astruc,” created by Edouard Manet in 1866, exemplifies the Realism art movement. This oil on canvas piece measures 90 x 116 cm and belongs to the portrait genre. Currently, it is housed at the Kunsthalle Bremen in Bremen, Germany. The artwork, depicting Zacharie Astruc, showcases Manet’s distinctive technique and style.
The portrait is a meticulous depiction of a bearded man sitting with a composed demeanor, his left hand resting on the armrest and his right hand gesturing toward his chest. He is dressed in dark attire that contrasts with the lighter, more detailed background. The table in the lower left corner is scattered with books, papers, and a clock, suggesting an intellectual environment. The background also includes a partially visible figure of a woman near a table and a chair, adding depth and context to the setting. The painting skillfully captures the subject’s personality and the nuanced interplay of light and shadow, underscoring Manet’s mastery in portraiture.
