Portret van Eugène Sue 1842 - 1887

Carel Christiaan Antony Last created this portrait of Eugène Sue using lithography. Sue was a popular French novelist known for his serialized novels which often depicted the lives of the working class and explored social issues. Last’s lithograph captures Sue in a moment of thoughtful reflection. The gaze is directed away, a cigarette in hand, which perhaps serves as a marker of his intellectual pursuits. As we consider this portrait, it’s important to remember the cultural context in which it was created. During the 19th century, there was a growing interest in social reform and the plight of the less fortunate. Sue’s novels often challenged the status quo and shed light on the experiences of marginalized communities. By immortalizing Sue in this way, Last invites us to reflect on the power of storytelling to shape public opinion and inspire social change. This image serves as a reminder of the importance of art in promoting empathy, understanding, and solidarity across different social classes.