Portrait of Henry Field 1896

Léon Bonnat’s portrait of Henry Field, painted in 1893, is an exercise in the masterful use of oil paint, a medium by then long associated with the establishment. Consider how Bonnat coaxed the viscous paint to describe fabric and flesh, each with a distinct texture. Look closely at the layering of brushstrokes, the subtle gradations of light and shadow, to convey a sense of depth and volume. The dark suit and background, painted with broad, fluid strokes, contrast with the more detailed rendering of Field's face, drawing our attention to his gaze. Bonnat was part of a lineage of academic painters, those who were celebrated by the state. But oil paint itself has a much longer, more diverse history. From its origins in the medieval workshop to its role in modern art, this material has been a vehicle for countless expressions of creativity and skill. By understanding the materials and techniques used to create this painting, we can better appreciate not only Bonnat's artistry but also the rich cultural history of which it is a part.