Study of Gentile Bellini Edgar Degas (1834-1917)

The drawing presents a male portrait, executed in black chalk on paper. The subject is depicted from the chest upwards, his gaze directed towards the viewer with a certain solemnity. A voluminous fur hat dominates the composition, its texture rendered through dense hatching and subtle gradations of tone that create an impression of considerable depth and softness. This headwear obscures much of the hair, contributing to a sense of formality and perhaps indicating status or profession.
The face itself is characterized by sharp features: a prominent nose, well-defined cheekbones, and a firm jawline. The eyes are rendered with careful attention to detail, conveying an expression that might be interpreted as thoughtful or reserved. A slight furrowing of the brow adds to this impression. The artist has employed delicate shading around the eyes and mouth to suggest volume and form.
The neck is slender and elongated, merging into the upper torso where a high-necked garment is visible. This clothing further reinforces the sense of dignity and refinement associated with the subject.
The background is left largely undefined, allowing the focus to remain entirely on the individual portrayed. The artist’s use of chalk allows for a remarkable range of tonal values, from deep blacks that define shadows to lighter grays that suggest highlights. This creates a palpable sense of three-dimensionality and lends the portrait an air of quiet intensity.
Subtly, the drawing suggests a study – perhaps preliminary work for a larger composition. The unfinished quality of certain areas, particularly around the shoulders and lower neck, hints at this process. It is possible that the artist was exploring different ways to represent the subjects features or the texture of the fur hat before committing to a final version. The emphasis on meticulous detail in the face contrasts with the more generalized treatment of the surrounding elements, suggesting an interest in capturing psychological depth rather than purely physical likeness.