Bärtiger Mann sitzend nach links, die Rechte mit angewinkeltem Mittelfinger erhoben 

Editor: We’re looking at a chalk and pencil drawing of a seated, bearded man. It’s titled "Bärtiger Mann sitzend nach links, die Rechte mit angewinkeltem Mittelfinger erhoben," artist Gabriel Metsu. He seems almost contemplative, but there’s a definite sense of authority about him. What's your interpretation of this work? Curator: The pose strikes me as performative. Consider the way his hand is raised, and how he gazes towards us even with a slight turning of the head. This suggests the figure, even within a drawing, is aware of his own image and is being presented, or is presenting himself, in a specific light, to his contemporary viewers. It reflects the Baroque era’s interest in capturing not just a likeness but a social persona. Does that ring true to you? Editor: Yes, the gesture does seem very intentional now that you mention it. Is that hand gesture significant? Curator: It’s difficult to say with certainty what Metsu intended with this gesture without further context. It could simply be a way to demonstrate the artist’s skill in rendering anatomy. Or, it may have been understood at the time as referencing rhetoric or scholarly debate. Drawings like this were often exercises or preparations for larger history paintings or portraits intended for public display, reinforcing societal norms. Editor: That’s fascinating! It makes me think differently about how we read portraiture now, versus how it functioned within its own social context. Curator: Precisely! Considering art within its historical and cultural moment offers a far richer, more nuanced understanding than simply appreciating it aesthetically. It urges us to recognize its impact and relevance to contemporary audiences and power structures. Editor: I agree. It’s easy to look at something old and not realize how deeply connected it was to the issues of its time. I've definitely gained a new appreciation for the drawing today!