“The Irish Boy in Blue Denim – Anthony Lavelle” is an artwork painted by Robert Henri in 1927, belonging to the American Realism movement. This portrait captures the essence of its young subject with poignant realism, characteristic of Henri’s work during this period.
The artwork features a young boy with a direct gaze and loose, textured brush strokes that highlight the boy’s face and clothing. The boy’s curly, blonde hair catches the light, creating an evocative contrast with the dark, almost abstract background. The blue denim, after which the artwork is named, is rendered in broad, expressive strokes that emphasize the tactile quality of the fabric. The overall composition exudes a sense of honesty and straightforwardness, typical of American Realism, while also capturing the individuality and inner world of the young sitter.
