Artwork

Study of a Man with Hands in His Pockets

Study of a Man with Hands in His Pockets, by Gustave Caillebotte, 1893
Study of a Man with Hands in His Pockets, by Gustave Caillebotte, 1893

Study of a Man with Hands in His Pockets is a drawing by the Impressionist artist Gustave Caillebotte. It dates from 1893 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

Study of a Man with Hands in His Pockets is a drawing by Gustave Caillebotte, created as a preparatory work for a larger painting.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts Eugène Lamy, a friend of the artist, in a relaxed pose, capturing a moment of everyday life. Lamy is shown standing with his hands in his pockets, conveying a sense of informality and pause.

Technique & Style

Caillebotte employed loose, diagonal lines to convey the play of light and shadow on Lamy's jacket, demonstrating his interest in capturing natural effects. The sketchy marks and emphasis on chiaroscuro reflect the artist's realist style and affinity with Impressionist concerns.

History & Provenance

The drawing is related to Caillebotte's 1893 painting Bank of the Seine at Petit Gennevilliers, Winter, in which Lamy appears in conversation with the artist.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Gustave Caillebotte

Artist

Gustave Caillebotte

Gustave Caillebotte (French: ; 19 August 1848 – 21 February 1894) was a French painter who was a member and patron of the Impressionists, although he painted in a more realistic manner than many others in the group.

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