Study of the portrait 

This pastel portrait by Maurice Quentin de La Tour showcases the artist's signature style. The work is a close-up of a man's face, capturing a sense of intimacy and realism. La Tour's mastery of pastel is evident in the soft, blended tones that bring depth and dimension to the sitter's features. The subject's gaze and subtle smile suggest a thoughtful and intelligent individual. De La Tour, a prominent portraitist of the 18th century, was known for his ability to capture the personality and likeness of his subjects with remarkable precision.