This picture represents Ernest May and a friend, said to be M. Bolàtre. Ernest May (1845-1925) was a banker, and a collector of exceptional taste. He knew Degas and Manet. Degas also painted his portrait. The artist re- turned to this picture much later, having previously left it unfinished. A pastel study for the picture is in The Metropolitan Museum of Art.

Not inscribed.

Provenance:

? -1923: May, Ernest collection

1923: donation by Ernest May subject to usufruct to the National Museums for the Louvre Museum

1923: attributed to the Louvre Museum

1926-1947: Louvre Museum

1947-1986: Louvre Jeu de Paume Museum

1986: assigned to the Musée d'Orsay by the Musée du Louvre 

Inventory number:

RF 2444