Mansportret, in profiel naar links 1882

Jan Veth rendered this portrait in profile, using graphite on paper. The subject's gaze is directed to the left, his expression pensive, perhaps even melancholic. Veth uses subtle gradations of tone to model the planes of the face, creating a sense of depth and volume. The hatching technique, particularly evident in the hair and the shadows under the chin, adds texture and visual interest. The composition is economical, focusing primarily on the head and shoulders, with minimal background detail. The artist's signature in the bottom right corner anchors the composition, its angular lines contrasting with the softer curves of the face. The materiality of the graphite lends itself to the expression of fleeting moments, capturing not just the likeness but also the psychological state of the sitter. The interplay between light and shadow invites us to contemplate the complexities of human experience.