Kop van een oude man 1754 - 1759

Giovanni Battista Tiepolo created this "Head of an Old Man" drawing with red chalk, a medium which lends itself to both precision and softness. Notice how the warm tones of the chalk contrast with the cool hue of the paper, a color combination that draws the eye. The subject's gaze is directed upwards, away from the viewer. Tiepolo's marks vary greatly. Look at the face where the lines are delicately hatched, suggesting the play of light and shadow on the skin. Then move towards the beard and hair, areas defined by more energetic, scribbled strokes. This contrast in technique enlivens the image, creating a sense of texture and volume. Tiepolo's sketch is not just a study of a face; it is a meditation on the nature of drawing itself and the potential for chalk to capture human form and spirit.