Gerti Schiele mit zwölf Jahren 

Egon Schiele rendered this drawing of his sister, Gerti Schiele mit zwölf Jahren, using graphite on paper. The earth-toned paper immediately lends a warmth to the portrait, contrasting with the stark, grey lines that define Gerti's features. Schiele's application of line is particularly striking. Notice how he uses a network of delicate, almost hesitant lines to construct Gerti's face, capturing her youthful features with a sense of fragility. The composition is intimate, focusing solely on Gerti's upper body, which creates a direct connection with the viewer. The downward gaze adds a layer of introspection, inviting us to consider the inner world of the young subject. Within the formal structure of the portrait, Schiele destabilizes traditional portraiture by exploring psychological depth, rather than merely representing physical likeness. This exploration shifts the emphasis to the subject's interiority. Each stroke contributes to a deeper emotional resonance. The drawing invites ongoing interpretation and reflection, it's as if Schiele is asking us to look beyond the surface.