Portrait Of à Man Circa 1810, French School

Portrait of a Man circa 1805–1815
Oil on canvas in very good condition, original giltwood frame
Dimensions with frame 66x48 cm

Portrait of a young man seen from the waist up, slightly turned to the left, his eyes directed towards the viewer. The background is dark and uniform, which puts all the attention on the face. The expression is calm and assured, with a slight closed smile. The model wears a dark frock coat typical of the early 19th century, a white shirt with a high collar and a tie tied in a bow tie. These elements of clothing, as well as the short hairstyle, pulled up on top, allow us to date the painting to the years 1805–1815, to the period of the Consulate or the First Empire.

The giltwood frame is from the same period and appears to be original. It is decorated with a palmette decoration typical of the Empire style. Minor discreet wear but very good overall condition.

This type of portrait corresponds to a private commission, probably made for a man of the bourgeoisie or the administration. The painting shows a desire to appear dignified and respectable, without artifice or decorative overload, which was very common at that time.