Ingres, Jean Auguste Dominique – Charles Cordier (1777-1870), Inspecteur des Domaines a Rome et Paris, painted 1811 Canvas, 90 x 65 cm R.F. 477 Part 1 Louvre

The canvas presents a formal portrait of a man positioned in three-quarter view against a landscape backdrop. He is depicted as a young gentleman, with dark, meticulously styled hair and a pale complexion. His gaze is directed towards the viewer, conveying an impression of composure and self-assurance. The sitter wears a dark double-breasted coat over a crisp white shirt and cravat, indicative of his social standing and professional role. A red ribbon adorns his lapel, likely signifying membership in an order or association. A decorative medal is visible on the left breast of his coat, further emphasizing his status.
The artist has rendered the sitter’s features with a smooth, almost porcelain-like quality, characteristic of Neoclassical portraiture. The lighting is carefully controlled, highlighting the face and upper torso while leaving the background in relative shadow. This contrast directs attention to the individual being portrayed and reinforces his importance.
Behind the man, a landscape unfolds – a vista that appears distinctly Roman. A classical ruin, partially obscured by distance, sits atop a hill overlooking a small town nestled within the valley. The sky is overcast, lending a subdued tone to the scene. This backdrop isnt merely decorative; it serves as a visual cue connecting the sitter with a sense of history and cultural heritage. It suggests an appreciation for antiquity and reinforces his position within a lineage of intellectual and artistic tradition.
The placement of the hand resting on a document, partially visible in the lower left corner, is significant. The document itself remains illegible but implies official duties or responsibilities – a subtle indication of the sitter’s profession. This gesture, combined with his formal attire and dignified bearing, conveys an image of authority and competence.
The paintings subtexts revolve around themes of status, intellect, and civic duty. It is not simply a representation of a person but rather a carefully constructed statement about his place within society – a man of refinement, education, and responsibility, firmly rooted in the classical tradition while actively engaged in contemporary affairs. The overall effect is one of restrained elegance and quiet power.