#24807 Josep Mompou

The drawing presents a portrait study executed in black ink on white paper. The subject is depicted from the chest upwards, facing directly towards the viewer. A pronounced emphasis lies on capturing the essence of the individual rather than meticulous detail; the lines are fluid and expressive, suggesting a rapid execution.
Here we see a man with short, tightly curled hair that frames his face. The artist has used thick, dark strokes to define the contours of the forehead, eyebrows, nose, mouth, and chin. The eyes are rendered as simple ovals with small dots indicating pupils, conveying an impression of introspection or perhaps weariness. A slight asymmetry is noticeable in the facial features, contributing to a sense of individuality rather than idealized beauty.
The mouth is particularly striking; it’s drawn with a pronounced curve, hinting at a subtle smile or a contemplative expression. The jawline is sharply defined, and the neck is suggested by a few quick strokes. The overall effect is one of immediacy and psychological depth.
A signature, mom pou, appears in cursive script beneath the portrait. This inscription adds another layer to the work, suggesting a personal connection between the artist and the subject.
Subtly, the drawing conveys a sense of vulnerability and quiet dignity. The lack of shading or tonal variation focuses attention on the lines themselves, which seem to trace not just the physical features but also an underlying emotional state. It’s possible that the portrait aims to capture a fleeting moment of introspection or a characteristic expression of the sitter. The simplicity of the medium and style lends itself to a feeling of intimacy, as if we are privy to a private observation.