Head and shoulders portrait of Oliver Cromwell 1650s

David Loggan created this head and shoulders portrait of Oliver Cromwell with graphite on paper. The drawing is dominated by the subject’s head, framed by soft, flowing hair. Loggan used delicate, precise lines to capture the contours of Cromwell's face. The texture of the paper and the subtle gradations of graphite create a sense of depth, drawing us into the character's gaze. Consider the formal qualities of portraiture during this period. There's a clear emphasis on realism, but it's also about constructing an image of power and authority. Cromwell's gaze, though slightly averted, suggests a leader who is both thoughtful and resolute. The armor reinforces this sense of authority, while the soft lines of his hair and face hint at a more complex, human figure. The unfinished quality of the drawing is interesting. The sketch-like quality suggests a work in progress, perhaps reflecting the ever-changing nature of Cromwell's legacy and the ongoing reinterpretation of his place in history.