Portrait of the General Counsel of Geneva, Richard, large format 1888

Marcellin Desboutin created this portrait of Richard, the General Counsel of Geneva, using drypoint on paper. The composition, encased in an oval frame, centres on the sitter’s face and upper body, immediately drawing the viewer's attention. Desboutin’s skilled use of line and texture is evident in the intricate detailing of Richard’s beard and hair, achieved through dense networks of hatching. The subject’s gaze is direct and unwavering. Consider how the use of drypoint – a technique known for its velvety blacks and rich tonal gradations – lends the portrait an air of gravitas. The density of the lines creates a contrast against the lighter areas, giving the piece a dynamic visual quality. The contrast is a crucial element, not just aesthetically but also in framing the social and political identity of the subject. This portrait operates within a network of cultural codes, reflecting the values of the society in which it was produced. It prompts us to question how artistic techniques and visual elements can be harnessed to convey power and status.