Head of Man Facing Left 1730 - 1790

Charles Nicolas Cochin II created this drawing, "Head of Man Facing Left," using graphite on blue paper. The head inclines downward to the left, giving the subject a contemplative or melancholic air. What’s immediately apparent is the texture achieved through the varied application of graphite. Notice how Cochin uses densely packed lines to define the contours of the face, creating depth and shadow, particularly around the eyes and mouth. Lighter, more sparse lines suggest the soft texture of the man’s hair and cap. The blue paper serves not only as a ground but actively participates in the drawing’s composition. It provides a mid-tone that accentuates the graphite's highlights and shadows, pushing the boundaries between figure and ground. This interplay challenges our perception, asking us to consider the drawing not just as a representation but as an object in itself.