Zittend mannelijk naakt, van opzij gezien (2e prijs 1788) Possibly 1788

Jacob Smies made this red chalk drawing in 1788. It depicts a nude male model in a seated pose. The image has a warm, textured feel due to the red chalk used to render the figure and the subtle variations in tone across the paper. Red chalk allowed Smies to capture the nuances of light and shadow, creating a sense of volume and depth. The marks are built up in layers, carefully modeling the muscles and contours of the figure. We can see the artist's hand in the cross-hatching that defines the shadows, and the smudging that softens the transitions between light and dark. This process of layering and blending requires time, patience, and a deep understanding of human anatomy. Drawings like this were often made in an academic setting, a learning environment where aspiring artists could hone their skills by studying the human form. This drawing may have been a study for a larger painting, but it stands alone as a beautiful testament to the artist’s skill and the enduring appeal of the human figure. By understanding the materials and processes involved, we can appreciate the rich history of this artwork.