Maxfield Parrish Kenyon Cox

The portrait presents a man in profile, viewed from approximately three-quarters perspective. He is depicted seated, his arms crossed over his chest, creating a posture that suggests both composure and a degree of reserve. The sitters gaze is directed towards the left of the frame, lending an air of introspection to the composition.
The artist has rendered the subject with meticulous attention to detail, particularly in the depiction of hair and facial features. A rich auburn hue dominates the hair, which is styled neatly but retains a natural texture. The face itself displays strong bone structure, accentuated by careful modeling of light and shadow. The skin tone appears warm, suggesting an interior illumination rather than direct external light.
The man’s attire contributes to the overall impression of cultivated refinement. He wears a striped shirt, partially unbuttoned at the collar, revealing a crisp white undershirt and a dark bow tie. A jacket is draped over his shoulders, adding another layer of texture and visual interest. The fabrics rendering demonstrates an understanding of how light interacts with different materials.
The background is muted and indistinct, serving to isolate the figure and direct focus onto his presence. The limited color palette – primarily browns, reds, and creams – creates a sense of warmth and intimacy.
Subtly, the crossed arms might be interpreted as a gesture of self-protection or perhaps a quiet assertion of individuality. The profile view, traditionally associated with dignity and seriousness, reinforces this impression. There is an underlying feeling of intellectualism conveyed through the subject’s bearing and the precision of his features. The overall effect is one of restrained confidence and thoughtful contemplation.