Heads of Two Bearded Old Men c. 18th century

Curator: Here we have Jean-Antoine Watteau's "Heads of Two Bearded Old Men," a captivating drawing residing here at the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: Immediately I see a shared solemnity—two men adrift in thought. The quick lines and muted colors evoke a sense of introspection, maybe a shared melancholy. Curator: Watteau often studied figures from life, and this sheet showcases his skill in capturing character. These aren't portraits of specific individuals, but rather types, perhaps intended for use in larger compositions. The paper itself also shows signs of handling, indicating Watteau’s active studio. Editor: I'm drawn to the expressive lines around their eyes; there's a weight of experience etched there. It makes you wonder about the stories they could tell, if only they would look at you. Curator: Indeed, Watteau's work, while seemingly light, engages with complex themes of human nature and the passage of time. His influence on French Rococo is undeniable. Editor: They feel very contemporary in the simplicity and the incompleteness of the piece. A raw glimpse of humanity, suspended in time.