Artwork

Jaguar

Jaguar, by Paul Cezanne, graphite, 1872
Jaguar, by Paul Cezanne, graphite, 1872

Jaguar is a graphite drawing by the Romanticist artist Paul Cezanne. It dates from 1872 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Paul Cézanne’s drawing titled *Jaguar* was executed in 1872. Rendered in graphite on wove paper, the work belongs to the artist’s early period and exemplifies his interest in rendering animal forms through line and tonal variation.

Technique & Style

The piece employs graphite to build volume and texture, using cross‑hatching and subtle shading to suggest the animal’s musculature. Cézanne’s handling of the medium reflects a transitional approach, merging the observational precision of academic drawing with an emerging emphasis on structural simplification.

History & Provenance

Created during Cézanne’s formative years, *Jaguar* predates his later, more celebrated canvases. The drawing’s provenance traces back to the artist’s personal collection before entering public holdings, though specific ownership details remain limited in the record.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Paul Cezanne

Artist

Paul Cezanne

Paul Cézanne was born on January 19, 1839, in Aix-en-Provence, the son of a hatter turned wealthy banker.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.