Claude Renoir, the Artist’s Son, in Profile 1908

Pierre-Auguste Renoir captured his son Claude with a pen, perhaps in a moment stolen from life. I can imagine Renoir, always exploring the human form, observing his son’s soft profile, his unruly hair. There’s a directness here. You can see the artist’s hand in each delicate line, each mark considered and full of love. It reminds me of those times in the studio when you’re just trying to get something down, trying to work it out, not overthinking it. There’s a certain vulnerability. Renoir's focus is on capturing the essence of his son's youth, the ephemeral beauty of childhood, rather than aiming for a photorealistic likeness. You know, it’s like when you're drawing from life and the kid moves and you have to start all over again. It is just a glimpse, just the right feeling, a moment captured.