Study for ‘Portrait of an Indian’ c. 1807

This study by French Neoclassical painter Anne-Louis Girodet for his monumental painting “Portrait of an Indian” from c. 1807 showcases a richly dressed man in a turban and flowing robes. The figure's pose, with a hand resting on a sword, suggests a powerful and proud demeanor, perhaps referencing the colonial context of the time. Girodet, known for his exploration of exotic themes, used this study to develop the composition and details of his final work. The intricate patterns and vibrant colors on the figure’s clothing are hallmarks of his style, adding a sense of visual opulence and highlighting the allure of the East in the West.