Récits des temps mérovingiens ; un esclave 1883

"Récits des temps mérovingiens ; un esclave" is a painting by Jean-Paul Laurens, a prominent French academic artist known for his historical and genre scenes. The artwork from 1883 portrays a muscular male figure, likely an enslaved person, viewed from behind, standing with his back to the viewer and holding a bowl. The subject's pose and the lighting emphasize his physical strength and the sense of duty implied by the holding of the bowl, likely used for serving food. This work exemplifies Laurens' ability to capture human figures with realistic detail, showcasing his mastery of academic realism.