Portrait of Louis Delaunay father (1826-1903), member of the Comédie Française

Before you is "Portrait of Louis Delaunay father (1826-1903), member of the Comédie Française," a captivating painting created in 1885 by Théobald Chartran. This intimate portrait, measuring 23 by 28 centimeters, is part of the Musée Carnavalet's collection. The painting presents a realistic depiction of Louis Delaunay, a member of the renowned Comédie-Française theatre company. nn The artist masterfully captures Delaunay in a three-quarter view, his gaze engaging the viewer directly. His expression is subtly melancholic, his features—a high forehead, prominent nose, and the delicate shadows under his eyes—carefully rendered to convey both his age and character. He is dressed in dark, formal attire: a dark coat or jacket with a high collar, and a darker cravat or necktie. A small, possibly red, detail is visible on his chest, adding a touch of intrigue. The dark red background provides a rich contrast to his complexion and clothing, drawing the eye to the sitter's face. The overall palette is muted, yet the skillful use of light and shadow creates a remarkable sense of depth and volume, bringing the portrait to life. This is a beautiful example of realistic portraiture, showcasing Chartran's talent for capturing both the likeness and the inner life of his subject.