Seated Gentleman c. 1769

Jean-Baptiste Greuze sketched "Seated Gentleman" using red chalk, capturing the essence of a man in repose. Greuze lived through a tumultuous period in France, including the pre-revolution and the rise of Enlightenment ideals. This drawing, with its focus on a solitary figure, prompts us to reflect on individuality and representation. During the 18th century, portraits were often tools of power, reinforcing social hierarchies. But here, the informality of the sketch and the sitter's relaxed pose suggest a more intimate, perhaps even subversive, take on portraiture. There's a sense of interiority in this image; the man seems lost in thought, gesturing as if in conversation. Does this reflect a shift in societal values, towards valuing personal experience? The sketch may leave us with questions rather than answers, encouraging us to consider the sitter's story beyond the confines of his social standing.