Man met een opgeheven bijl c. 1884 - 1887

This dynamic sketch of a man with a raised ax was created by Willem Witsen. The vigorous strokes of graphite on paper capture a moment of raw physical exertion. Witsen's emphasis on line and form is evident in the way he uses stark contrasts to define the figure against the ambiguous background. The composition is structured around diagonals, from the upward thrust of the ax to the leaning posture of the man, conveying a sense of instability and force. The hatching and cross-hatching create a sense of volume and texture, adding depth to the scene. The rapid, gestural marks suggest movement, capturing the transient nature of physical labor. What does it mean to represent a man not as an individual but as a figure defined by action and energy? Witsen’s focus on the dynamic interplay between the figure and his actions challenges traditional notions of portraiture. It invites us to consider how human identity can be constructed through movement and force rather than static representation.