Portrait de Régis Courbet, père de l’artiste 1874

Gustave Courbet made this portrait of his father, Régis, using oil paints and brushes. Courbet’s technique is rooted in the traditional art academy, yet he used it to revolutionary ends. Note the texture, built up layer upon layer, particularly in the face and hair. This isn’t just about depicting Régis’ likeness; it’s about the materiality of paint itself. The artist was deeply engaged with the everyday lives of working people and the world around him. Courbet’s art reflects this ethos. He applied his craft not to render idealized or historical scenes but rather to elevate the ordinary. In this portrait, the skilled labor of painting is evident. Courbet uses it to immortalize his father, a landowner, but also a symbol of the burgeoning middle class. This challenges conventional hierarchies of subject matter, asserting that everyday life is worthy of artistic attention. It’s a powerful statement, blurring lines between fine art and the realities of a changing society.