Bildnisse des Malers Prof. Besel aus Breslau sowie des Architekkten Hübsch aus Heidelberg c. 1817 - 1821

Karl Sandhaas created this drawing entitled "Bildnisse des Malers Prof. Besel aus Breslau sowie des Architekkten Hübsch aus Heidelberg" using pen in brown ink over pencil. Two portraits are laid out next to each other. Each portrait appears to be the same size, set in the same orientation, suggesting the same importance is given to each subject. The artist uses light and shadow to create form, which can be seen in the faces and clothing. Note the light, feathery lines, which create a sense of movement and texture. The artist uses a semiotic system of signs to convey not just physical likeness but also the status of each sitter through their gaze, hairstyle, and clothing. The drawing seems unfinished, with only the barest outlines of the men visible, emphasizing the underlying structure. The unfinished quality draws attention to the act of representation itself.