Maskers 1939 - 1941

"Maskers" (1939-1941) by Dutch artist Leo Gestel (1881-1941) features a densely packed composition of overlapping faces, rendered in simple linework. This black and white drawing, held at the Rijksmuseum, explores themes of identity and social interaction. The fragmented nature of the faces, some obscured by others, suggests the complexity and ambiguity of human relationships. The work exemplifies Gestel's signature style, characterized by bold lines and a focus on capturing the essence of his subjects. This piece is a powerful testament to the artist's talent for capturing the human condition.