Zittende man met fagot Possibly 1860 - 1862

David Bles created this drawing titled 'Seated Man with Bassoon' using graphite on paper. The composition of the drawing is immediately striking in its simplicity and use of line. Bles employs quick, decisive strokes to capture the sitter’s posture and attire. Notice the contrast between the more densely shaded areas, which define the form of the chair and the man’s legs, and the lighter, more skeletal lines used for the upper body and facial features. This contrast creates a sense of depth and volume, while also emphasizing the contemplative mood of the subject. The man is shown in a relaxed pose, his face resting on his hand, which might evoke a feeling of introspection. The formal elements contribute to the overall atmosphere of quiet reflection. The drawing does not seek to replicate reality. Instead, it uses the language of line and form to explore the inner state of its subject, thus inviting the viewer into a space of contemplation. The power of this work lies in its ability to convey so much with so little.