Portret van Alphonse de Lamartine 1842 - 1887

Carel Christiaan Antony Last created this lithograph portrait of Alphonse de Lamartine, which now resides in the Rijksmuseum. Observe how the octagonal frame and the monochromatic palette give the work a certain visual structure. The artist’s precise use of lithography provides a rich level of detail, especially in the rendering of Lamartine’s hair and clothing. The sharp lines that define the contours of his face and jacket contrast with the softer, more diffused shading used to model the forms. This controlled use of light and shadow not only creates a sense of depth, but also conveys a certain psychological depth. The attention to structure and detail here invites us to consider how such formal choices create meaning, engaging with ideas about representation and perception.