Hoofd van een paard, naar rechts 1819

Jean Bernard made this study of a horse’s head with graphite and perhaps some ink on paper. The soft, granular texture of the graphite gives a subtle, almost dreamlike quality to the image. The delicate shading creates a sense of depth, particularly around the eye and jawline, evoking a feeling of quiet observation. Bernard's technique emphasizes line and form. Notice how the simple, economic lines capture the horse’s anatomy, defining its musculature. The composition is strategically cropped, focusing solely on the head. This directs our gaze to the animal's expression. Consider how this study reflects broader artistic concerns of the period. The restrained elegance and attention to detail are characteristic of the Neoclassical movement. Bernard captures the essence of the animal with minimal embellishment, underscoring a commitment to clarity and idealized form. The horse, an enduring symbol of power and grace, becomes here an object of serene contemplation.