En ung mand i hat og slåbrok. Hel figur siddende, vendt mod venstre 1774 - 1776

This drawing of a young man in a hat and dressing gown was made by Jens Juel, though the date of its making is unknown. It is graphite on paper. The delicate lines, made by a simple graphite pencil, give us a sense of immediacy, a snapshot of a man caught in a moment of contemplation. The pressure and direction of each stroke creates light and shadow. See how the shading defines the folds of his robe, the contours of his face, and the texture of his hair. Drawings like these were often studies, or preparatory sketches for larger paintings. Juel would be experimenting with composition, light, and form. The medium invites intimacy, a direct connection to the artist's hand and mind. Consider how the use of humble materials elevates this drawing beyond its function as a mere study, asserting its place as a work of art in its own right. The value lies in its inherent qualities, and in the skillful artistry evident in its creation.