Man with caricatured features and hair streaming behind, in half-length to left
Original title: Man with caricatured features and hair streaming behind, in half-length to left
kurzbeschreibung
A man appears half-length, his gaze turned to the left. Wenceslaus Hollar made this etching in 1648. Black on white, the emphasis falls on the caricature-like, exaggerated facial features and the restless, blowing hair.
Description
The man's high forehead stands out, and he wears a short, neatly trimmed beard. His hair streams backward, brought to life by the drawn strokes. A plain, loose robe falls across his shoulder. His expression seems thoughtful and still. The background stays undefined, so the figure draws all attention to itself.
Context
The etching dates from 1648, when Hollar was working in Antwerp. As the inscription in the image reveals, it goes back to a model by Leonardo da Vinci. Hollar was known for his reproductive prints after works by famous artists.
Impact
Clear lines and the reduced layout direct the eye to the striking physiognomy of the sitter. The calm posture and the moving hair create a dynamic tension.
Technique
An etching that exists in only one state. The plate measures about 8 × 5.9 cm; the lower left and upper right corners are torn off. Fine hatching models face and clothing with great precision.
AI-generated description text
Source: Metropolitan Museum of Art · Public Domain (CC0 1.0)