Portrait of a Gentleman (Mr. Plumer or Plumiere)

Before you is Portrait of a Gentleman (Mr. Plumer or Plumiere), a charcoal drawing by the renowned artist Michael Dahl. This exquisite piece, measuring 26.4 centimeters by 34.3 centimeters, is part of the impressive collection at the Yale Center for British Art. While the exact date of creation remains unknown, the drawing masterfully captures the likeness of a gentleman, presented in a head-and-shoulders composition. nn Notice the artist's skillful use of charcoal; subtle variations in tone create a remarkable sense of depth and volume in the gentleman's face. The soft, diffused light avoids harsh contrasts, lending a gentle, almost pensive quality to his expression. His slightly downturned eyes and neutral mouth contribute to this serene demeanor. The suggestion of a large, full wig is beautifully rendered with loose, swirling lines that hint at the curls and texture of the hair, all within the light beige background. nn The overall style is realistic, focusing on accurately portraying the sitter's features. The monochromatic palette, limited to the grayscale of the charcoal, further emphasizes the texture and form of the face and hair. It's a testament to Dahl's ability to convey character and emotion through subtle gradations of tone and line. The drawing's simplicity and focus on the sitter's likeness make it a truly captivating work.