In Portrait of Andrew Carnegie, the viewer is greeted by a striking image of the industrialist. Spilliaert uses a muted color palette dominated by deep blues and browns. Carnegie's face is illuminated, drawing attention to his thoughtful expression.

The background remains dark and undefined, enhancing the focus on the figure. The painting is executed in oil on canvas, showcasing Spilliaert's skillful brushwork. The texture of the paint adds depth to Carnegie's features, making them appear almost lifelike. The use of light and shadow is particularly effective, highlighting the contours of Carnegie's face.

This technique is characteristic of Spilliaert's Symbolist style. Léon Spilliaert was a Belgian artist known for his unique approach to portraiture. This work, created around the early 1900s, reflects the artist's interest in capturing the essence of his subjects. Interestingly, Spilliaert was influenced by the Symbolist movement, which sought to express deeper meanings through art.

His portrayal of Carnegie emphasizes the complexity of the man behind the public persona.