Victor Chocquet

Welcome, everyone! Before you stands "Victor Chocquet," a captivating portrait painted in 1877 by the renowned Post-Impressionist artist, Paul Cézanne. This remarkable piece is part of the esteemed collection of the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts. nn Measuring a compact 27.31 centimeters wide and 35.24 centimeters high, the painting offers an intimate encounter with its subject. Cézanne masterfully portrays Victor Chocquet, presenting him in a three-quarter view, seated and engaging the viewer with a serious, contemplative gaze. Chocquet, an older gentleman, is depicted with graying hair and a neatly trimmed beard, dressed in a dark suit with a hint of lighter shirt visible at the collar. His hands rest partially in view, one on his lap, the other subtly near his waist. nn Cézanne's distinctive style is immediately apparent. Instead of smooth blends, he employs short, distinct brushstrokes, building up the form and texture of the subject and his surroundings. The palette is predominantly dark, featuring deep blues, greens, and blacks in the clothing and background. Subtle highlights of warmer ochre yellows and muted oranges peek through, possibly suggesting an interior wall or space. Notice the skillful use of light and shadow on Chocquet's face; the range of flesh tones, from pale yellows and oranges in the highlights to darker browns and greens in the shadows, creates a remarkable sense of volume and depth, emphasizing the contours of his nose, cheekbones, and jawline. The light source is soft, avoiding harsh contrasts. nn The painting is a realistic portrait, yet imbued with Cézanne's unique artistic vision, prioritizing form and structure over strict photographic realism. It's a testament to Cézanne's ability to capture both the likeness and the essence of his sitter. Take a moment to appreciate the artist's skill and the quiet intensity of this remarkable work.