Portrait of a Woman 

Hans Purrmann sketched this 'Portrait of a Woman' using delicate lines to capture her likeness, revealing not just her appearance but also something of her inner state. Note the stark contrast between the larger, frontal portrait and the smaller, more contemplative one in the background; this juxtaposition invites us to consider dual aspects of identity and the shifting nature of self-perception. Consider the 'Florentine Cittern Player' by Caravaggio, in which the figure’s gaze and posture similarly convey introspection. The slight tilt of the head and the direct gaze can be traced back to classical portraiture. These gestures, passed down through the ages, become encoded with layers of meaning; what was once a sign of status evolves into a symbol of psychological depth. The image engages viewers on a subconscious level; a powerful force triggering a sense of connection with the sitter's emotional state. The cyclical progression of symbols reveals how gestures and expressions resurface, evolve, and take on new meanings across different historical contexts.