Portret van Théodole Augustin Ribot 1878

This is Philip Zilcken's portrait of Théodole Augustin Ribot, made with etching. Zilcken, a Dutch artist, captures the French painter Ribot with stark realism. Ribot, known for his commitment to depicting working-class subjects, was born into a modest family, which profoundly shaped his artistic focus and his identification with those often overlooked by the art world. Here, we see Ribot portrayed with a certain intensity. Zilcken's rendering emphasizes the weight of Ribot's experiences, his gaze both penetrating and world-weary. Consider the choice of etching, a medium that allows for deep blacks and fine lines; the technique mirrors Ribot's own artistic values, in its unvarnished look at humanity. The print doesn’t shy away from the physical toll of existence, evident in the deep lines of Ribot’s face. This portrait serves not only as a record of appearance but also an evocation of a life dedicated to bearing witness to the lives of others.