Hoofd, in profiel naar links c. 1901 - 1927

This pencil drawing, “Hoofd, in profiel naar links” or “Head, in profile to the left,” was created by Johan Antonie de Jonge. While we can’t pinpoint the exact date of its creation, the materiality of the artwork speaks volumes. Notice the paper itself: its texture and the visible signs of age suggest that it’s not just a neutral support for the drawing, but an integral part of the work. The artist's choice of graphite pencil is also key. Unlike paint or ink, graphite has a dry, immediate quality, allowing for quick sketches and studies like this one. The marks on the paper suggest a process of layering and erasure, hinting at the artist's thought process. There’s an intimacy to the work, a sense of direct connection to the artist’s hand. It is a simple medium that serves as a looking glass into the artist's perspective. By paying attention to these material qualities, we can move beyond simply identifying the subject of the drawing, and begin to understand the artist’s working methods and creative vision.