1910 Franz Marc with Russi (Franz Marc mit Russi) August Macke (1887-1914)

The drawing presents a figure in profile, accompanied by what appears to be a canine companion. The man is rendered with elongated features and a pronounced nose, suggesting a deliberate distortion for expressive purposes rather than strict realism. His hair is depicted as thick and somewhat unruly, sketched with energetic lines that convey texture and volume. He wears a garment that falls loosely over his shoulders, its folds indicated by broad strokes.
The dog sits at the man’s feet, its form simplified to essential shapes. The artist has used quick, gestural marks to suggest fur and posture, creating an impression of liveliness rather than detailed accuracy. A sense of interaction between the two figures is implied through their proximity and the direction of the mans gaze, though the dog’s face remains largely undefined.
The drawing’s monochromatic palette contributes to a starkness that emphasizes form and line. The artist has employed varying degrees of pressure in his strokes, creating tonal contrasts that define volume and add depth. A signature appears at the bottom right corner, executed with a more controlled hand than the rest of the work.
Beyond a straightforward portrait, the drawing seems to explore themes of companionship and perhaps introspection. The man’s profile suggests a contemplative mood, while the presence of the dog hints at loyalty and emotional connection. The simplified forms and expressive lines suggest an interest in conveying feeling and essence over precise representation, pointing towards a focus on subjective experience rather than objective observation.