Head of an Old Man 

Alphonse Legros rendered this head of an old man in soft pencil, a study in age and the weight of time. The most striking element is the subject's profile, his pronounced brow and nose, and the flowing beard—a symbol of wisdom and experience. This image of the elder, the bearded sage, is a recurring archetype throughout history. It hearkens back to the classical philosophers of antiquity, like Plato or Socrates, who were often depicted with similar features, embodying intellect and profound insight. In earlier religious contexts, consider the image of Moses, often represented with a long beard, signifying his prophetic role and the weight of divine knowledge he carried. The portrayal of age, etched with lines and wrinkles, speaks to the cyclical nature of life. Consider how this symbol has resurfaced in various forms, from religious icons to the wise mentors in modern narratives. Its evolution reflects our enduring fascination with the passage of time and the transmission of knowledge across generations.