#41579 Carlos Saenz De Tejada

The drawing presents a portrait of a young boy, rendered in pastel on paper. The composition is straightforward: a bust-length depiction centered against a warm, muted background that appears almost monochromatic. The artist has chosen a frontal view, allowing for direct engagement with the subject’s gaze.
Here we see a child who seems to be around eight or nine years old. His expression is complex; it isnt overtly joyful nor sorrowful, but rather carries an air of quiet contemplation, perhaps even a touch of melancholy. The mouth is slightly downturned, and the eyes possess a certain seriousness that belies his age. The artist has skillfully captured the subtle nuances of youthful features – the rounded cheeks, the delicate curve of the nose, and the slight asymmetry inherent in human anatomy.
The boy’s arms are crossed over his chest, a gesture which can be interpreted as defensiveness or introspection. It creates a sense of closure, suggesting a withdrawal from the viewer. The rendering of the hands is particularly noteworthy; they are not idealized but realistically depicted with attention to detail – the knuckles, the slight creases in the skin, all contributing to a feeling of authenticity.
The artist’s use of pastel lends a softness and warmth to the work. The limited palette – primarily creams, browns, and touches of pink – creates a harmonious visual unity. Hatching and blending techniques are employed to model form and create depth, particularly noticeable in the rendering of the hair and facial features. The background is less defined, allowing the focus to remain firmly on the boy himself.
Subtly, theres an implication of vulnerability within the portrait. The child’s direct gaze, combined with his guarded posture, suggests a sensitivity that invites empathy from the observer. It isnt merely a representation of a young boy; it is a study in character, hinting at an inner life and a quiet resilience. The overall effect is one of poignant realism, capturing a fleeting moment in childhood with remarkable psychological insight.