Thomas Carlyle 

This is a portrait of Thomas Carlyle, a Scottish philosopher and social theorist, created by the French artist Alphonse Legros. It is a striking example of Legros's powerful and expressive style, which used bold lines and dark shading to capture the character of his subjects. Legros was known for his portraits, landscapes, and religious works, often depicting social realism and psychological depth. This particular piece captures the essence of Carlyle, a figure known for his strong opinions and influential writings. The composition focuses on the subject's face, with his piercing gaze and thoughtful expression, highlighting Carlyle's intellectual depth.