Pencil portrait of a man with a cap – 19th-century drawing study, signed

Pencil drawing of an older man in a cap – academic drawing study

An expressive pencil drawing of an older man in a cap with an open collar. The face is modelled with great care: the heavy eyebrows, the pale gaze, the deep lines around the nose and mouth (photos 3 and 4). Numbered ‘7.’ in pencil at the bottom and signed ‘P. Co…’ with a flourish at lower right (reading uncertain, photo 5).

The number and the classical execution point to a 19th-century academic drawing study, in which pupils copied model heads and numbered their sheets. By the same hand we also have a portrait of a young girl (no. 44).

Why we chose this piece

A face with a life behind it. With nothing but pencil, the draughtsman created a weathered, almost melancholy head.

Style and interior

Suits a classic, studio or wabi-sabi interior, a study, or a wall of portraits. Together with the girl’s portrait by the same draughtsman, a lovely pair. Supplied unframed.

Dimensions: 30.5 × 24 cm
Artist: unknown; signed ‘P. Co…’
Technique: pencil on paper
Period: second half of the 19th century (estimated)
Origin: Western Europe
Condition: Good. The paper is lightly toned, with a brown stain at upper left (photos 1 and 2) and a few small specks. Edges lightly worn. Pencil is prone to smudging; framing behind glass is recommended.

Price:
€ 75

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