James Ensor 

This lithograph by David Lang is a portrait of the artist James Ensor, capturing his likeness with stark, expressive lines. Ensor's distinct moustache, a prominent feature in this portrait, echoes the flamboyant facial hair seen in portraits of figures throughout history, signifying a certain status. One might even recall images of ancient emperors and scholars, whose beards were symbols of wisdom. Yet, here, the exaggerated form takes on a new psychological dimension. It's a mask, a way for Ensor to both present himself and to conceal deeper anxieties. Consider how the act of portrayal itself becomes a recurring motif in art. This is not merely a likeness, but a layered representation where the artist’s inner world meets the external image. These symbols and gestures resonate through time, engaging us on a profound, subconscious level. They constantly resurface, evolve, and take on new meanings in differing historical contexts.