The artwork, titled “Valery,” is executed by the esteemed artist Gerhard Richter and belongs to the New European Painting art movement. It is classified under the figurative genre, which commonly involves the representation of identifiable, real-world subjects.
The artwork portrays the close-up image of a mature man’s face with a solemn and contemplative expression. The figure is depicted with striking realism, capturing the textures of his aging skin and the subtle shifts in shadows and light. The man’s hair is light and thinning, complementing his mustache. The background is indistinct and blurred, focusing the viewer’s attention solely on the subject. The monochromatic palette adds a timeless quality to the piece, reinforcing the depth and character of the individual portrayed. Richter’s masterful use of shading and soft focus technique conveys a sense of intimacy and introspection.
