Portrait of a Young Man 

Eastman Johnson rendered this “Portrait of a Young Man” using charcoal and crayon on paper, presenting a study in tonal contrast and textured form. The composition focuses on the sitter's upper body, with the face as the focal point. Johnson masterfully uses chiaroscuro to model the young man’s features. The soft gradations of light and shadow across his face and clothing give the portrait depth and volume, while the background’s neutral tone throws the subject into sharper relief. The application of the charcoal varies, creating different textures. Soft, blended strokes define the face, while rougher, more assertive lines delineate the suit. The overall effect is a balance between realism and abstraction, where the materiality of the medium contributes significantly to the work's aesthetic. Johnson's ability to capture both likeness and the tactile quality of his materials makes this portrait a compelling study in form and representation.