The artwork, titled “Type of Jew” and created by James Tissot between 1886 and 1889, is a sketch and study rendered in ink on board. This piece belongs to the Realism art movement and measures 12.1 x 17.9 cm. It is housed in the Brooklyn Museum, located in New York City, NY, US.
The artwork features a detailed ink sketch portraying two bearded men, both dressed in traditional robes and head coverings, indicative of their cultural identity. The meticulous attention to detail in their expressions and attire speaks to the Realist style of Tissot, capturing not only the physical likeness but also a sense of the characters’ inner lives. The composition is minimalistic, with a focus on the figures themselves and a blank background to emphasize their features and clothing. The lines are finely executed, showcasing Tissot’s skill in rendering textures and subtle variations in tone, providing a vivid and respectful representation of the subjects.