Stehender Bauer mit verschränkten Armen c. 1603 - 1609

Roelant Savery sketched this "Standing Farmer with Arms Folded" with a fine, delicate hand using graphite. The sketch, dominated by the figure’s heavy presence, is rendered with a remarkable economy of line. Savery masterfully captures the texture of the farmer's clothing and the contours of his face. The composition focuses on the farmer’s stance, revealing a study in human form through the lens of social observation. The presence of another figure, only partially rendered, gives us a rare glimpse into the artist's method of working through multiple ideas on the same sheet, offering insights into the creative process. Savery's attention to detail can be seen in his careful rendering of the farmer’s hands and face. He uses light and shadow to create depth. This creates a rich visual dialogue between the subject and the viewer. This drawing is not merely a depiction of a man, but a study in form, line, and social commentary that continues to engage and provoke thought.