Hoofd, in profiel 1875 - 1934

Isaac Israels created this pencil drawing titled "Hoofd, in profiel," now held in the Rijksmuseum, offering a glimpse into the artist's sketch work. The gaze directed upwards carries profound historical weight. Consider, for example, the ecstatic saints of the Baroque era, their eyes lifted towards divine inspiration. This motif transcends mere observation, becoming a symbol of aspiration, hope, or spiritual yearning. One sees echoes of this gesture across epochs—from religious iconography to secular portraiture. The act of looking upwards can suggest supplication or a connection to something beyond the earthly realm, reflecting our subconscious desire for transcendence. Its evolution from religious fervor to expressions of human aspiration shows the symbol's striking versatility, resonating with viewers on a subconscious level across time. The figure in this drawing engages us with this deep-seated emotional memory.