The drawing Caricature of Henri Cassinelli (“Rufus Croutinelli”) by Claude Monet (French, 1840-1926) offers a rare glimpse into the artist's formative years. Created between 1857 and 1860, this graphite sketch on tan wove paper is representative of the skillful, humorous portraits Monet produced for sale in Le Havre before he dedicated himself fully to landscape painting. This classification of Drawing, dating from his late teenage years, is critical for understanding the genesis of his career.
The technique employs expressive line work and sharp contours, characteristic of the satirical portraiture popular in France during the mid-19th century. The subject, Henri Cassinelli, is rendered with exaggerated, witty features typical of the genre. While the work stands apart from the luminous canvases Monet later became famous for, it is essential in tracing the trajectory of his artistic development, demonstrating an early aptitude for quick observation and figural skill.
This early drawing provides valuable context for Monet’s career and shows his initial commercial success before his formal training began. Works from this period frequently enter the public domain, making high-quality prints and reproductions accessible to researchers and enthusiasts. This historically significant piece is currently housed in the collection of the Art Institute of Chicago, where it serves as a crucial document illuminating the foundational period of one of history’s greatest Impressionists.
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