Bildnis eines Mannes mit Mütze 

Eugen Eduard Schäffer's "Bildnis eines Mannes mit Mütze" at the Städel Museum presents a delicate study in pencil, where the artist explores the nuances of form and structure through a minimalist approach. The composition centers on the subject's head and shoulders, rendered with fine, almost hesitant lines. Schäffer's use of line is particularly striking; it's tentative, creating a sense of depth and volume without resorting to heavy shading. The eyes, though lightly sketched, draw the viewer in, suggesting a contemplative mood. The hat, with its intricate folds and soft contours, adds a layer of complexity to the otherwise sparse composition. The extensive use of negative space around the figure invites reflection on what is not depicted, challenging our perception and underscoring the power of suggestion in portraiture. The structural simplicity of the drawing underscores the artist's interest in capturing the essence of his subject through fundamental elements.