A man and a woman 1662

This 1662 drawing by Esaias Boursse depicts a man and a woman standing in profile, possibly a study for a larger composition. The drawing, rendered in graphite on paper, is a fine example of Boursse's skill in capturing the human form. Both figures are depicted with a sense of naturalism, their poses and expressions conveying a sense of casualness and ease. The man, wearing a wide-brimmed hat and loose-fitting clothing, stands with his hands clasped behind his back. The woman, adorned in a long dress and bun, appears to be gazing intently at the man. This small-scale drawing, measuring 148mm in height and 196mm in width, reveals Boursse's attention to detail and his mastery of line drawing.