Portrait of Mr. Pertuiset, the Lion Hunter
- Original dimensions
- 171.5 x 150.5 cm
- Museum
- São Paulo Museum of Art
- Year
- 1881
Scene depicted
The portrait of M. Pertuiset, the lion hunter, illustrates an emblematic figure of adventure and courage. Manet, in depicting this hunter in deep contemplation, does not merely show a man, but captures a moment of reflection and questioning about courage in the face of nature. This painting reveals the contrasting facets of man against animal majesty, a palpable tension between life and death.
Historical context
Created in 1881, this iconic painting finds its roots in Paris, an epicenter of artistic creativity in the 19th century and at the heart of the Impressionist movement, of which Manet is one of the pioneers. The painting is currently exhibited at the São Paulo Museum of Art , thus offering a window into this vibrant era of artistic reinvention. With its impressive dimensions of 171.5 x 150.5 cm, it captures not only the image of a man but also the spirit of a time.
Place in the artist's career
This Portrait marks a pivotal moment in Manet's career, cementing his reputation as a bearer of a new style. Parallels with works like "Déjeuner sur l’herbe" and "Olympia," this canvas reflects his artistic evolution, a bold transition towards the expressionism of emotions through light and color. Each painting , a cry of innovation, marks his indelible imprint on the history of art.
Anecdote
Manet is said to have once stated: "Color is the true painting of a soul in motion." This sentiment resonates through the masterpiece that is the Portrait de M. Pertuiset, evoking the encounter of a sunny morning in the savannah, where the hunter meets the gaze of a majestic lion. This encounter, both intimate and brutal, is reflected in the expressive strength of this canvas .