Portrait of a Man Thomas Couture (1815-1879)

The drawing presents a bust-length portrait of a man in profile. The subject is depicted from approximately his mid-chest upwards, with his gaze directed towards the viewers left. He appears to be middle-aged, suggested by the presence of lines etched around his eyes and mouth, as well as subtle indications of age on his neck. His hair is cropped short, neatly combed back from his forehead, revealing a receding hairline. A meticulously rendered mustache dominates the lower portion of his face, its shape carefully defined with shading to suggest volume and texture.
The artist employed a technique that emphasizes tonal variation through hatching and cross-hatching, creating a sense of depth and form. The play of light and shadow across the man’s features highlights the contours of his nose, cheekbones, and jawline. A distinct emphasis is placed on capturing the subtle nuances of expression; theres a quiet intensity in his eyes and a slight downturn to his mouth that hints at introspection or perhaps a touch of melancholy.
The subject wears what appears to be a formal collar, suggesting a position of some social standing or professional importance. The rendering of the fabric is detailed, with careful attention paid to its folds and texture. This detail contributes to an overall impression of refinement and dignity.
Beyond the straightforward depiction of physical features, the drawing conveys a sense of quiet authority and perhaps even a degree of weariness. The lines on his face suggest experience and contemplation. Theres a certain stoicism in his expression that invites speculation about his character and life story. The artist’s focus on detail suggests an intention to capture not just a likeness but also the essence of the man’s personality.