Artwork

Count Robert de Montesquiou

Count Robert de Montesquiou, by Beatrix Godwin Whistler, ink, 1894
Count Robert de Montesquiou, by Beatrix Godwin Whistler, ink, 1894

Count Robert de Montesquiou is an ink print by the Impressionist artist Beatrix Godwin Whistler. It dates from 1894 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

This 1894 lithograph by Beatrix Godwin Whistler is a portrait of a man, identified as Count Robert de Montesquiou. Executed in black, it showcases the artist's skill in capturing detail and nuance through the medium.

Subject & Meaning

The subject is depicted from the waist up, with a serious expression, wearing formal attire. His downward-cast eyes convey a contemplative mood, while the simplicity of the composition emphasizes his introspective demeanor.

Technique & Style

The lithograph's use of solid black background and clean lines creates a striking contrast with the subject's light-colored clothing, highlighting Whistler's mastery of the medium. The fine detail in the subject's facial features adds depth and texture to the image.

Artist & collection

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