Artwork
The Artist's Son Reading

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.
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Artist & collection
Artist
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,…















