Charles Hascoët French, b. 1985
9 7/8 x 13 3/4 in
This painting depicts the artist himself at the Vincennes racetrack, in a self-portrait where he stands in the foreground, leaning casually against the rail of the track. The scene captures the distinctive atmosphere of the racetrack, with a jockey on horseback in motion in the background, under a dramatic, cloud-filled sky.
The artist skillfully conveys both the tension and elegance of the equestrian world while placing himself simultaneously as observer and participant. The palette is subtle, dominated by cool and earthy tones that lend the scene a sense of realism while maintaining painterly expressiveness. Visible brushstrokes reveal a confident and lively execution.
The self-portrait is distinguished by the relaxed posture of the figure, in stark contrast to the energy of the horse and rider behind him. This juxtaposition underlines the duality of observation and movement—a recurring theme in the art of representation.
Within the artist’s body of work, this painting stands as an intimate statement, affirming his presence in a place loaded with symbolism, at the crossroads of sport, spectacle, and contemplation. The use of oil on canvas adds depth and richness to the textures, enhancing the overall pictorial quality.
