cr RobinWood PoP 35 MasterShonagar Robin Wood

Here we observe a portrait study executed in colored pencil on paper. The subject is depicted from the chest upwards, seated and leaning upon what appears to be a table or ledge. A palpable sense of weariness or contemplation emanates from his posture; the elbow rests heavily on the supporting surface, while the hand cradles the chin in a gesture suggesting introspection.
The man’s features are rendered with considerable detail, though softened by an overall muted palette dominated by browns and ochres. The face is round, with prominent cheeks and a somewhat flattened nose. A distinctive, cropped hairstyle reveals a scalp that appears to be thinning. He wears what seems to be a loosely draped robe or shawl over a blue garment, the folds of which are carefully indicated through subtle shifts in tone and texture.
The artist’s technique emphasizes textural qualities. The colored pencil strokes create a granular effect across the entire surface, lending a sense of immediacy and rawness to the depiction. This approach avoids smooth blending, instead highlighting the individual marks that contribute to the overall form. The limited color range contributes to a somber mood, while also drawing attention to the play of light and shadow on the subject’s face and clothing.
The inscription at the bottom left corner – MASTER_SHONAGAR followed by a signature and date (© Robin Wood 1988) – suggests that this is either a portrait of an individual known as “Master Shonagar” or perhaps a symbolic representation associated with that name. The use of the copyright symbol indicates a deliberate assertion of ownership and artistic control.
Subtly, theres a sense of quiet dignity in the subject’s bearing despite his weary posture. The artist seems to have aimed not for an idealized likeness but rather for a truthful portrayal of character, capturing a moment of private reflection. The overall effect is one of restrained intimacy, inviting the viewer to consider the inner life of the person depicted.