Man Aged 93 (brush & ink on paper) 1521

Albrecht Durer rendered this work on paper using brush and ink. The drawing offers an intimate portrayal of old age, dominated by the subject’s contemplative pose and the intricate detailing of his aged features. The composition is closely cropped, focusing almost exclusively on the head and upper torso, which intensifies the viewer's connection with the subject. Durer's mastery is evident in the way he uses line and shading to articulate texture and form. The face is etched with wrinkles and folds, each line contributing to the narrative of a life lived. Soft, flowing lines describe the beard, providing a textural counterpoint to the more angular lines of the face. The use of chiaroscuro, the contrast between light and dark, gives volume to the figure and enhances the emotional depth of the image. The slightly tilted head and closed eyes evoke a sense of introspection. Durer's precise linework and balanced composition invite viewers to contemplate the universal themes of aging, wisdom, and the passage of time. This drawing challenges conventional notions of beauty, finding value in the marks and textures of age.