Xavier Benguerel 1930 Pere Daura

The artwork presents a portrait bust rendered in a monochrome etching style. The subject is depicted from the chest upwards, facing directly toward the viewer with a slight upward tilt of his head and a subtle smile playing on his lips. He wears round spectacles that dominate the upper portion of the composition, their circular form echoing in the curves of his cheeks and chin. A tie, knotted neatly at his neck, is visible beneath what appears to be a lab coat or similar professional attire.
The artist employed a dense hatching technique, creating areas of deep shadow that define the contours of the face and clothing. This contributes to a sense of depth and volume despite the limited tonal range. Fine lines delineate individual hairs on the head, suggesting a receding hairline and adding detail to the overall rendering. The inscription at the top, seemingly handwritten in a stylized script, identifies the subject and includes the year 1930. A smaller signature appears near the bottom right corner.
Beyond the straightforward representation of an individual, the work conveys a sense of intellectualism and perhaps even quiet self-assurance. The spectacles suggest scholarly pursuits or professional expertise. The formal pose and direct gaze establish a connection with the viewer, inviting scrutiny and potentially hinting at a desire for recognition. The inclusion of the name and date suggests that this is not merely a casual sketch but rather a deliberate portrait intended to document an individual at a specific moment in time.
The starkness of the monochrome palette contributes to a feeling of austerity and timelessness, moving beyond a simple likeness to suggest something more enduring about the subjects character or legacy. The overall effect is one of understated dignity and intellectual presence.