Henry Gasquet 1897

Paul Cézanne's 1897 portrait, "Henry Gasquet," captures the essence of the prominent French writer and critic. The painting, housed at the McNay Art Museum in San Antonio, showcases Cézanne's signature post-impressionist style. Bold, geometric shapes and brushstrokes create a sense of volume and depth, emphasizing the sitter's presence. The vibrant colors and simplified forms contribute to a sense of immediacy, drawing the viewer into the intimate encounter. Cézanne's unique approach to portraiture, favoring a sense of solidity over realistic detail, defines the work as a hallmark of his artistic evolution.