William John Burchell John Sell Cotman (1782-1842)

The drawing presents a male figure in profile, facing left. He is depicted from the chest upwards, with considerable attention paid to rendering his facial features and hair. The artist employed a technique that emphasizes light and shadow through meticulous cross-hatching, creating a sense of volume and texture.
Here we see a man with a somewhat youthful appearance; his brow is slightly furrowed, suggesting contemplation or perhaps a hint of melancholy. His gaze appears directed beyond the frame, lending an air of introspection to the portrait. The hair, styled in tight curls characteristic of the period, frames his face and contributes to the overall impression of refinement.
The man’s attire consists of a high-necked shirt with a cravat and a jacket or coat, rendered with careful detail that indicates a certain level of social standing. The lines used to depict the fabric suggest a degree of formality and perhaps even prosperity.
Subtly, the drawing conveys an impression of intelligence and seriousness. The lack of overt ornamentation in his clothing and the directness of his gaze contribute to this effect. It is possible that the artist intended to portray a man of intellect or someone engaged in scholarly pursuits. The signature at the bottom right corner suggests a personal connection between the subject and the creator, hinting at a commissioned work or a portrait created for posterity.

The overall aesthetic aligns with the conventions of early 19th-century portraiture, prioritizing realism and conveying character through subtle nuances of expression and detail.