Head of an Old Man, Profile Right c. 18th century

Editor: This is Benigno Bossi's "Head of an Old Man, Profile Right." It's hard to put my finger on exactly when it was made, but the cross-hatching gives it a really interesting texture. What do you make of it? Curator: I see a quiet moment, a scholar perhaps, lost in thought, maybe scribbling notes on scripture. The cross-hatching, as you pointed out, creates such a rich tapestry of light and shadow. It almost feels like Bossi is etching the weight of time itself onto the page. Do you get a sense of the old man's wisdom? Editor: Absolutely! It's there in the wrinkles around his eyes. It's interesting how such simple lines can convey so much. Curator: It's a powerful reminder of the beauty found in simplicity, isn't it? I find myself pondering what stories this man could tell. Editor: I’ll definitely be thinking about that too now. Thanks!