Bust of a Man, His Gaze Directed Toward the Spectator 1475 - 1525

This is an undated portrait drawing of a man, whose maker is unknown, rendered in graphite on paper. It's easy to overlook the significance of graphite, but this material has a powerful story to tell. Think of the word 'graphic,' implying both representation and inscription. Graphite is the very stuff of mark-making and, by extension, rational thought. The artist has used this association to full effect, defining the sitter’s likeness by building up areas of tone. This process allows for precision, but also, as you can see in the subtle gradations of shadow on the man's face, great expressiveness. We might assume that the drawing was done as a study for a painting or sculpture, or perhaps as an independent work of art. Whatever its purpose, this portrait exemplifies how even the simplest materials can yield profound results. By attending to the materials, making, and context, we can better understand and appreciate the artwork's full meaning and impact.