Artwork

The Artist's Son Reading

The Artist's Son Reading, by Paul Cézanne, graphite, 1887
The Artist's Son Reading, by Paul Cézanne, graphite, 1887

The Artist's Son Reading is a graphite drawing by the Impressionist artist Paul Cézanne. It dates from 1887 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art. This graphite drawing on wove paper, dated circa 1887, depicts a scene of quiet contemplation.

Inscription
Inscribed:by later hand, lower right in graphite: XXXII; by later hand, upper right in graphite: 63

About this work

Overview

This graphite drawing on wove paper, dated circa 1887, depicts a scene of quiet contemplation.

Subject & Meaning

The subject is the artist's son, absorbed in reading, conveying a sense of intimacy and domestic tranquility.

Technique & Style

Executed in graphite, the work showcases Cezanne's expressive line work and nuanced shading, characteristic of his draftsmanship.

History & Provenance

Created around 1887 by Paul Cezanne, the drawing's early ownership history is not detailed here, though it is attributed to the artist's oeuvre of that period.

Context

Part of Cezanne's body of work focusing on family life, it reflects his interest in capturing everyday moments.

Legacy

While not as widely recognized as his paintings, this drawing contributes to the understanding of Cezanne's skill with graphite and his portrayal of familial themes.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Paul Cézanne

Artist

Paul Cézanne

Paul Cézanne ( say-ZAN, UK also siz-AN, US also say-ZAHN; French: ; Occitan: Pau Cesana; 19 January 1839 – 22 October 1906) was a French Post-Impressionist painter whose work introduced new modes of representation,…

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.

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Frequently asked questions

Who painted The Artist's Son Reading?

The Artist's Son Reading was painted by Paul Cézanne in 1887.

Where can I see The Artist's Son Reading?

The Artist's Son Reading is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is The Artist's Son Reading?

The Artist's Son Reading is associated with Impressionism.

Can I buy a print of The Artist's Son Reading?

Museum-quality prints of The Artist's Son Reading are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.