Man met baard en profil 1864 - 1904

This is "Man met baard en profil" by Frans Hermesdorf, made with a technique called lithography. Lithography involves working on a stone or metal plate with a greasy crayon, then treating the surface so that ink adheres only to the drawn areas. It's a printmaking method that allows for soft, tonal variations, as you can see in the subtle gradations of light and shadow here. Hermesdorf has used this process to create a sensitive portrait, focusing on the play of light across the man's face and beard. The lithographic crayon has a particular texture, almost like velvet, lending a softness to the image. Lithography was a relatively democratic medium, allowing for the reproduction of images at a lower cost than traditional engraving. It enabled artists like Hermesdorf to reach a wider audience. Considering the material and method, we can see how Hermesdorf found a way to combine accessibility and artistry. In doing so, he has left us a powerful and intimate portrayal of his sitter.