pic01821 Shuzo Ikeda

The drawing presents a portrait of a woman rendered in a stark, monochromatic palette. The composition is vertically oriented, emphasizing the figures elongated form and direct gaze. Here we see a face characterized by large, almond-shaped eyes that dominate the features; they convey an expression difficult to definitively categorize – perhaps melancholy, introspection, or even resignation.
The artist employed broad, gestural strokes to delineate the facial structure and hair. These lines are not delicate or precise but rather possess a raw quality, contributing to a sense of immediacy and emotional intensity. The hair falls in thick strands framing the face, obscuring parts of the shoulders and neck, which further isolates the subject within the composition.
The application of texture is notable. A grainy effect pervades the surface, achieved through the use of varied pressure or perhaps a specific drawing technique. This textural element adds depth and visual interest while also contributing to an overall feeling of fragility or vulnerability. The background is uniformly dark, which serves to heighten the contrast with the lighter tones used for the face and hair, directing the viewers attention directly towards the subject’s features.
Subtly, there appears to be a suggestion of vertical striations across the figure’s face and neck. These lines could represent an attempt at depicting age or perhaps a symbolic representation of suffering or constraint. The overall effect is one of quiet contemplation, hinting at an internal world beyond what is immediately visible. The signature in the lower right corner suggests a personal connection to the subject, implying that this may be a portrait of someone known to the artist.