Odyssey of Homer: Polyphemus, the Cyclops Antoine Calbet (1860-1944)

The drawing presents a figure in evident distress, seemingly caught mid-motion. He is depicted from the chest upwards, with his head tilted back and mouth open in what appears to be a cry or a roar. His eyes are wide and convey a sense of shock or pain. The musculature is rendered with considerable detail, emphasizing the physical strain he’s experiencing. A prominent wound, marked by a dark red line, runs across his shoulder and upper arm, suggesting recent trauma.
The artist employed cross-hatching extensively to create shading and texture throughout the figure. This technique gives the skin a rough, almost animalistic quality, reinforcing the impression of primal ferocity or suffering. The density of the hatching varies, creating areas of light and shadow that define the contours of his body and accentuate the intensity of his expression.
The posture itself is significant. One arm is raised defensively, as if warding off an attack, while the other clutches at his shoulder near the wound. This gesture communicates vulnerability alongside a desperate attempt to protect himself. The overall composition directs attention towards the face, where the emotional turmoil is most intensely displayed.
Subtly, theres a sense of isolation conveyed by the cropped view and lack of surrounding context. He exists within this frame as an isolated entity, consumed by his immediate experience. The limited color palette – primarily shades of brown and cream – contributes to a somber and dramatic atmosphere. The signature in the lower left corner and another mark in the bottom right suggest a deliberate artistic process and perhaps a connection to a larger series or project.