Admiral Baron Tomasaburo Kato 1921

Walter Tittle made this portrait etching of Admiral Baron Tomasaburo Kato sometime in the early 20th century. It's a fascinating example of how an artist can capture a likeness with such minimal means. Look at the way Tittle uses these tiny, etched lines to build up the form of Kato's face. See how the density and direction of the lines create the illusion of shadow and volume, particularly around the eyes and cheekbones. The texture of the paper becomes so important. The slightly smudged quality to the hatching softens the overall effect, giving it a kind of quiet intimacy. What I find really compelling is how Tittle manages to convey a sense of character and presence with such economy, it reminds me a little of some of Lucian Freud's more austere portrait etchings, where the intensity of the gaze is everything, and where the smallest of details carry the most weight. Ultimately, this piece reminds us that art isn't about perfection but about capturing a feeling, a moment, a fleeting impression.