French school of the late 18th century

French school of the late eighteenth century.
PIERRE LEBEL
"Male portrait".
Oil on canvas.
Signed "P. Lebel" at the bottom.
Measurements: 101 x 81 cm; 118 x 98 cm (frame).

Male portrait of military or political personage, who could have played a role during the Napoleonic period, which is deduced by the insignia of the merit that he shows in his doublet: the Legion of Honor, maximum decoration of France, created in 1802 by Napoleon Bonaparte to recognize civil and military merits. Next to this medal, he wears a fleur-de-lis. The portrait denotes a great psychological depth: pensive and tired eyes, worn skin, half-open lips and prominent nose. The brushstroke delves into detail, seeking a precious verisimilitude, both in the flesh tones and in the details of the elegant clothing: starched collar, knotted kerchief, felt coat, etc. Even the hands denote character. This is a portrait resolved in neoclassical academic language.