Pharisee

Before you stands "Pharisee," a powerful charcoal drawing created in 1906 by the renowned Theo van Doesburg. This piece, part of the collection housed in Amsterdam, offers a compelling close-up portrait of an older man. While the exact dimensions aren't specified, the drawing masterfully captures the character of its subject through expressive use of light and shadow. The man's head and shoulders dominate the composition, his profile subtly turned towards us, revealing a face etched with the lines of age and experience. His partially closed eyes and slightly open mouth hint at a contemplative or perhaps weary expression. The artist uses shades of brown and black charcoal on a light beige or tan paper, the visible strokes adding texture and depth to the portrait. The shading suggests a light source from above, accentuating the contours of the face and the simple lines indicating his dark clothing. The overall effect is a raw, expressive portrait study, focusing intently on the subject's character and the passage of time. Van Doesburg's signature is subtly placed, completing this remarkable work.