Who painted Portrait of a Man?

Portrait of a Man was painted by Gustave Caillebotte in 1880.

Where can I see Portrait of a Man?

Portrait of a Man is held by Cleveland Museum of Art.

What movement is Portrait of a Man?

Portrait of a Man is associated with Impressionism.

Artwork

Portrait of a Man

Gustave Caillebotte , 1880

Portrait of a Man is an unspecified painting by the Impressionist artist Gustave Caillebotte. It dates from 1880 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

Accession no.: 2009.157
Credit line: Bequest of Muriel Butkin

About this work

The light feels natural, almost casual, as if the artist caught a quiet moment between two people who knew each other well.

A man in a dark suit leans against a balcony railing, Paris spreading out behind him. His hands are relaxed, his gaze steady, like he’s just paused mid-conversation.

This isn’t a stiff, formal portrait. The setting is Caillebotte’s own apartment, where he painted friends lounging in their everyday lives. The light feels natural, almost casual, as if the artist caught a quiet moment between two people who knew each other well.

To see more of Caillebotte’s Paris scenes, look up Gustave Caillebotte (French, 1848–1894).

Overview

Portrait of a Man is a painting by Gustave Caillebotte depicting a figure from his social circle.

Subject & Meaning

The subject, identified as Albert Courtier, is shown in a relaxed pose on a balcony, suggesting a familiar and informal relationship with the artist. Courtier's calm demeanor and unguarded gaze imply a level of comfort and trust.

Technique & Style

The painting features a naturalistic use of light and a candid portrayal of the subject, capturing a quiet moment between two acquaintances. The setting, Caillebotte's own apartment, adds to the sense of informality.

History & Provenance

The portrait was painted in Caillebotte's apartment at 31 boulevard Hausmann in Paris, which he shared with his brother Martial. Courtier had a close relationship with Caillebotte, posing for him multiple times and owning several of his works.

Artist & collection

Artist

Gustave Caillebotte

Gustave Caillebotte (French: ; 19 August 1848 – 21 February 1894) was a French painter who was a member and patron of the Impressionists, although he painted in a more realistic manner than many others in the group.