Portrait of a Lieutenant (Alois Gerstl)

Richard Gerstl’s 1906 Portrait of a Lieutenant (Alois Gerstl) exemplifies his engagement with expressive, early 20th-century portraiture. Gerstl, known for his intense psychological insight and innovative approach, combines bold brushwork and keen attention to facial detail, emphasizing inner character over strict realism. The work aligns with elements of Art nouveau (modern), evident in its fluid lines and organic forms that subtly shape the composition. As a genre, the portrait captures both the military stature suggested by the title and an intimate, individual presence through Gerstl’s distinctive technique.