Portret van John James Audubon 1842 - 1887

Carel Christiaan Antony Last created this portrait of John James Audubon. The lithograph print uses subtle gradations of light and shadow. The artist composes the image within a circular vignette, creating a sense of focus and intimacy. The formal elements of line and shading contribute to the overall structure of the portrait. The subject’s face is rendered with delicate precision, contrasting with the darker, more expressive strokes of the surrounding cape. This contrast draws our eye directly to Audubon's face, inviting us to consider the individual within the pictorial space. The softness of the lithographic technique, coupled with the detailed rendering, creates a tension between realism and idealization. This technique reflects broader artistic concerns with representation and the human form. The portrait not only captures a likeness but also invites contemplation about the relationship between the individual and their representation.