Portrait of a woman from Brussels 1520

In 1520, Albrecht Dürer captured this woman from Brussels in a detailed drawing. The texture and materiality of the drawing, achieved through delicate pencil work, give the portrait an intimate feel. Her gaze, directed slightly away, invites curiosity, while the soft shading models the contours of her face and headdress. Consider the structural elements: Dürer’s use of line is paramount. Precise hatching defines the form and volume, creating a contrast between light and shadow that brings the figure to life. The woman’s headdress, meticulously rendered, frames her face, drawing attention to her features. The composition, while seemingly straightforward, subtly disrupts the conventional portrait. Dürer presents not just a likeness but an exploration of form through line and shading. By focusing on these structural elements, Dürer moves beyond mere representation, engaging in a dialogue about the nature of perception and the construction of identity. This drawing remains a compelling example of how formal qualities can enrich our understanding of a subject.