Paul Cézanne – Antoine Dominique Sauveur Aubert (born 1817), the Artist’s Uncle, as a Monk Metropolitan Museum: part 4

Here we observe a portrait depicting a man in what appears to be monastic attire. The subject is positioned centrally against a muted, grey-green background that lacks detail and serves primarily as a backdrop for the figure. He gazes directly forward with an expression that is difficult to definitively categorize; it suggests introspection rather than overt emotion. His face displays signs of age – lines are visible around his eyes and mouth, and theres a general weathering apparent in the skin tone. A dark beard obscures much of his lower face, adding to the sense of solemnity.
The artist has rendered the man’s clothing with thick, textured brushstrokes. The white hood dominates the upper portion of the composition, its folds meticulously detailed yet retaining a certain roughness that prevents it from appearing overly formal or idealized. A blue cord is visible beneath the hood, drawing the eye downward and adding a subtle color contrast. He holds a small wooden cross clasped in his hands, positioned prominently near the center of the image. The cross’s dark tone contrasts with the lightness of his garments, emphasizing its symbolic importance.
The application of paint suggests an interest in capturing not just likeness but also the materiality of the subject and his surroundings. Theres a deliberate avoidance of smooth blending; instead, individual brushstrokes are visible, contributing to a sense of immediacy and physicality. The lighting is uneven, highlighting certain areas of the face while leaving others in shadow, which further enhances the impression of depth and complexity.
Subtly, the work seems to explore themes of faith, contemplation, and perhaps even regret or resignation. The man’s direct gaze suggests an invitation for introspection on the viewers part. His posture, with arms crossed, conveys a sense of quiet resolve, but also potentially a degree of defensiveness or withdrawal. The choice to portray him as a monk, regardless of his actual profession, introduces layers of symbolic meaning related to spiritual devotion and renunciation. It is possible that the artist intended to convey a commentary on family history, personal beliefs, or the passage of time through this depiction of an older relative.