Hoofd van een oude man, in profiel c. 1660

Moses ter Borch made this head of an old man, in profile, in the mid-17th century, using pen in brown and grey ink, brush in grey and brown wash, and graphite on paper. Look closely and you’ll notice how Ter Borch used these different media to create a sense of depth and texture. The graphite likely established the initial form, while the pen and ink work define the contours of the face and beard, capturing the weathered skin and furrowed brow of the man. The washes give the portrait volume and a somber mood. This drawing represents a skilled practice rooted in traditions of draftsmanship. It's worth noting that at this time, the production of paper was becoming more industrialized, and increasingly tied to growing commercial networks and consumer demand. Ter Borch has transformed these everyday materials into a sensitive portrayal of age and experience. It reminds us of the labor involved in all forms of making, from the production of raw materials to the skilled hand of the artist.