Portrait of Emile Soldi 1876

Marcellin Desboutin's "Portrait of Emile Soldi" is an 1876 etching that captures the sculptor Soldi at work. The artist’s signature style is evident in the loose, expressive lines and heavy shading, resulting in a highly realistic depiction of the subject. The composition emphasizes the focused intensity of Soldi's gaze as he delicately works on his sculpture. This print, housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, serves as a fascinating glimpse into the creative process of a fellow artist through the lens of Desboutin's keen observation.