Artwork

Portrait of the sculptor Jacques De Braekeleer

Portrait of the sculptor Jacques De Braekeleer, by Charles Verlat, oil
Portrait of the sculptor Jacques De Braekeleer, by Charles Verlat, oil

Portrait of the sculptor Jacques De Braekeleer is an oil painting by the Post-Impressionist artist Charles Verlat. It is held in the collection of the Royal Museum of Fine Arts Antwerp.

About this work

Overview

The Portrait of the sculptor Jacques De Braekeleer is a painting executed in oil paint by Charles Verlat in 1894. It is part of the Royal Museum of Fine Arts Antwerp's collection.

Subject & Meaning

The portrait depicts Jacques De Braekeleer, a sculptor, with a serious expression, holding an object and resting his arm on a pedestal bearing an unfinished sculpture. The subject's profession is alluded to through the presence of the sculpture and his introspective demeanor.

Technique & Style

The painting features thick brushstrokes and textured paint, particularly in certain areas, achieved through the use of impasto. This technique adds a tactile quality to the work.

History & Provenance

Charles Verlat, the artist, was a Belgian painter and director of the Antwerp Academy, where Vincent van Gogh studied briefly in 1886. Verlat was known for his diverse subjects, including animal scenes, portraits, and everyday life.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Charles Verlat

Artist

Charles Verlat

Charles Verlat or Karel Verlat (25 November 1824 – 23 October 1890) was a Belgian painter, watercolorist, engraver (printmaker), art educator and director of the Antwerp Academy.