Portrait of a Young Man c. 1818

Théodore Géricault's "Portrait of a Young Man" (c. 1818) is a compelling example of the artist's early work, known for its realism and psychological depth. The painting, rendered in oil on canvas, captures the intense gaze and expressive features of the young man, who is dressed in a simple yet elegant shirt and jacket. Géricault's signature use of light and shadow creates a sense of depth and drama, highlighting the subject's youthful energy and underlying introspection. The painting is considered a significant contribution to the development of portraiture in the 19th century.