Ingres Ursin Jules Vatinelle Jean Auguste Dominique Ingres (1780-1867)

The drawing presents a young man in three-quarter profile, set against a stark black background. The subject is rendered with meticulous attention to detail using graphite on paper, revealing a nuanced interplay of light and shadow that defines his features and clothing. His hair, styled in the fashion of the early 19th century, falls loosely around his face, framing a countenance marked by an expression that appears both thoughtful and slightly melancholic.
The artist has captured a sense of quiet introspection through the subject’s gaze; it is directed off to the side, suggesting a preoccupation with something beyond the immediate view. The lines used to depict his facial structure are delicate yet precise, conveying a youthful vulnerability alongside a certain inherent dignity. A high-collared jacket or coat drapes over his shoulders, its folds and creases carefully observed and rendered, adding volume and texture to the composition.
The drawing’s economy of means – the absence of color and reliance on tonal variation – heightens the focus on the subjects character and presence. The artist’s hand is evident in the visible sketch lines, particularly around the hair and clothing, which contribute to a sense of immediacy and spontaneity. A signature and date are inscribed at the bottom right corner, providing contextual information without disrupting the overall composition.
Subtly, there exists an element of formality within the portraiture; the subject’s posture and attire suggest a person of some standing or importance. The drawing seems to be less about capturing a fleeting moment and more about creating a lasting impression – a study in character and appearance that transcends mere likeness.