Zonder titel (paard en liggend veulen) 1935 - 1936

This small drawing, "Untitled (Horse and Lying Foal)" by Leo Gestel, captivates with its simple yet evocative lines. The composition is dominated by the two figures, a standing horse and a resting foal, rendered in a style that emphasizes form over detail. Gestel's use of line is particularly striking. Notice how he employs short, repetitive strokes to define the contours and suggest texture, almost like a topographic map. This technique flattens the image, reducing depth and focusing attention on the surface pattern. The lines are not merely descriptive; they create a sense of movement and energy, animating the otherwise still scene. The monochromatic palette further accentuates the formal qualities of the work. Without the distraction of color, the viewer is encouraged to appreciate the interplay of light and shadow, the balance of positive and negative space. This drawing invites us to consider how fundamental elements like line and form can convey both the physical presence and the underlying vitality of the natural world, revealing the essence of these creatures through a language of pure abstraction.