Artwork
Portrait of Franz Liszt
Portrait of Franz Liszt is an oil painting by the Realist artist Joseph Layraud. It dates from 1869 and is held in the collection of the Hungarian National Gallery.
About this work
Overview
This 1869 oil painting by Joseph Layraud depicts Franz Liszt, the renowned Hungarian composer and pianist, in a realist portrait. The work is part of the Hungarian National Gallery's collection.
Subject & Meaning
The portrait captures Franz Liszt standing in front of a piano, with arms crossed and gaze directed at the viewer. The setting, including a music stand with sheet music, underscores Liszt's musical identity.
Technique & Style
Executed in the realist style, the painting features a dark background that contrasts with the subject's prominent figure, dressed in a black coat against a wooden floor. Liszt's blond hair is a notable visual detail.
History & Provenance
Created in 1869 by French painter Joseph Layraud, the portrait is now held in the Hungarian National Gallery. Layraud's diverse oeuvre reflects the broad practice of 19th-century academic artists.
Context
Liszt, a central figure in 19th-century music, was often depicted in art. This portrait, with its straightforward composition, aligns with the realist tendencies of the time, focusing on the subject's presence and profession.
Legacy
As a portrait of a pivotal musical figure, the work contributes to the visual record of Liszt's legacy. Its placement in the Hungarian National Gallery ensures its accessibility as a cultural artifact.
Artist & collection
Artist
Joseph Fortuné Séraphin Layraud (15 October 1834 – 12 October 1912) was a French painter.
