Karikatuur van Pièrre Jean Marie Laval 1934 - 1936

Leo Gestel made this caricature of Pièrre Jean Marie Laval, using what looks like ink on paper. Gestel’s approach is all about the line, it’s playful, confident, almost taunting. Look at how the lines build up the figure, creating shadow and volume with simple hatching. There’s a real economy to it; he knows exactly where to put each mark. The texture of the paper peeks through, giving it a raw, immediate feel. Check out his hands, all knotted and gnarled, which contrasts brilliantly with the delicate rosary beads. It reminds me a little of George Grosz’s satirical drawings, with that same biting wit and social commentary. Both artists knew how to use a simple line to say a whole lot. Ultimately, it’s a reminder that art doesn’t always have to be serious; sometimes, it’s okay to laugh, to poke fun, to question the powers that be.