St. Andrew Lucas Van Leyden (1494-1533)

The drawing presents a male figure in profile, leaning against a large, diagonally-oriented wooden structure. The man is depicted with considerable detail, emphasizing his age and perhaps his suffering. A full beard and receding hairline suggest maturity, while the deep lines etched around the eyes hint at hardship or contemplation. He wears a flowing garment that drapes heavily about him, its folds meticulously rendered to create a sense of volume and texture. One hand rests on the upper portion of the wooden structure, while the other holds what appears to be a book or scroll close to his chest.
A halo surrounds the figure’s head, indicating a spiritual significance. The wood itself is constructed from two thick beams joined at an angle; its stark verticality dominates the composition and serves as a visual anchor for the entire scene. The artist has employed cross-hatching extensively to create tonal variation and depth, particularly in the rendering of the beard, hair, and fabric. This technique also contributes to a sense of texture and roughness.
The posture of the man is notable; he appears weary but resolute, his weight shifted as if supporting both himself and the structure behind him. The diagonal placement of the wood creates a dynamic tension within the image, preventing it from feeling static or overly formal.
Subtly, the drawing conveys themes of faith, endurance, and sacrifice. The book held close suggests knowledge or scripture, while the wooden construction – its form reminiscent of a cross – implies suffering and redemption. The figure’s aged appearance and weary stance evoke a sense of solemnity and quiet dignity in the face of adversity. The overall effect is one of profound introspection and spiritual strength.