Artwork

Vanity Fair: "The Autocrat of the Breakfast Table"

Vanity Fair: "The Autocrat of the Breakfast Table", by Leslie Matthew (Spy) Ward, 1886
Vanity Fair: "The Autocrat of the Breakfast Table", by Leslie Matthew (Spy) Ward, 1886

Vanity Fair: "The Autocrat of the Breakfast Table" is a print by the Impressionist artist Leslie Matthew (Spy) Ward. It dates from 1886 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

This 1886 print by Leslie Matthew Ward, titled 'Vanity Fair: The Autocrat of the Breakfast Table', is a portrait housed at The Cleveland Museum of Art. Depicting a man in profile, the work exudes simplicity and elegance.

Subject & Meaning

The subject, an unidentified man with short, light hair and a bushy mustache, is shown standing with hands behind his back, facing right. His attire consists of a long coat and suit, suggesting a formal or professional persona.

Technique & Style

Ward employed a restrained color palette against a light beige background, fostering an atmosphere of calm and serenity. The overall composition emphasizes clarity and understated refinement.

History & Provenance

Created in 1886, the print is part of The Cleveland Museum of Art's collection, though the subject's identity remains unknown.

Artist & collection

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