Hoofd van een jongeman in een staat van aandacht Possibly 1732 - 1738

This is an anonymous print titled 'Head of a Young Man in a State of Attention' held here at the Rijksmuseum. The absence of the artist's name complicates our reading but also opens up avenues for exploring broader historical trends. During the period this print was likely made, there was a profound interest in physiognomy—the idea that one could discern character through facial features. The print, with its detailed rendering of the young man's features, invites us to participate in this speculative practice. The intense gaze and furrowed brow suggest deep thought or perhaps concern, but is it an honest portrayal of emotion? Or a performance of masculinity? Consider that such images often served didactic purposes, offering models of idealised masculine traits. What does it mean to teach attention? To whom is this lesson directed? The work captures a moment of introspection, yet also serves as a mirror reflecting societal values and expectations.