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Feb 15, 2026
A finely executed 19th-century pastel and chalk on toned paper portrait depicting a bearded Moorish or North African man, shown in a three-quarter pose with contemplative gaze, with an earring common trope in Orientalist depictions that aimed to capture "exotic" Middle Eastern or North African subjects. The seater wears a yellow and green striped turban and a simple earring, with his robe loosely draped across his shoulders.
The artist demonstrates confident draftsmanship and masterful use of pastel, capturing the subject’s strong features, textured hair, and the softness of the fabric with lively yet subtle strokes. The background is left understated, focusing all attention on the sitter.
At the lower portion of the portrait, the work bears a monogram resembling a stylized "D", but the artist remains unidentified.
France, 19th century.
This piece belongs to the French Orientalist tradition of the 19th century, when European artists were fascinated by the people, architecture, and costumes of North Africa and the Middle East.
Such works were popular among collectors and exhibited at the Paris Salon, often created by artists who traveled through Algeria, Morocco, and Tunisia, or who worked from Paris studios using models and costumes brought back from abroad.
Artists working in a similar style include Eugène Fromentin, Charles Landelle, Jean-Jules-Antoine Lecomte du Nouÿ, and Georges Clairin.
While unsigned (except for the monogram), this pastel reflects the refined technique and ethnographic interest typical of the movement.
19 3/4 x 13 3/4 in., (50 x 35 cm.)
Well preserved, with some minor surface rubbing and expected age toning. Support: No major tears or visible damage.
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