Léon Delafosse c. 1895 - 1898

John Singer Sargent's portrait of Léon Delafosse is a striking example of the artist's mastery of oil painting. Executed in a realistic style, the portrait captures the subject's features with remarkable detail. The dark background, a hallmark of Sargent's work, serves to highlight the subject's face and the subtle light that illuminates his form. The composition, a simple yet effective three-quarter length view, emphasizes Delafosse's presence and conveys his dignified air. Sargent, known for his portraits of the wealthy and influential, captures a sense of both intimacy and reserved confidence in this work.