Kop van een man met opstaande kraag, in profiel naar links 1594 - 1669

Gaspar de Crayer rendered this head of a man with an upstanding collar in a profile facing left, using black chalk. The stark contrast between the strong lines defining the man's features and the softer shading of his hair and collar immediately grabs our attention. De Crayer’s use of line isn't just descriptive; it's structural. Notice how the firm strokes map out the planes of the face, creating volume and depth, while softer, more diffuse lines suggest the texture of the hair and fabric. This interplay between precision and suggestion is further emphasized through the limited tonal range of the chalk. The composition isn't merely a portrait, but also an exploration of form and light. By focusing on the profile, de Crayer reduces the subject to its most essential lines and shadows, inviting us to consider the formal qualities of the drawing itself. Through this delicate balance of line and shadow, the artwork invites us to see beyond the subject and contemplate the very essence of representation.