Description:

signed and dated lower left: A. Fontan. 1891
black chalk on brown paper
170 x 155 mm

Note:

Although the present drawing was surely made from life, it is unclear whether Joseph-Augustin Fontan ever undertook an artistic expedition to North Africa like his son-in-law Ferdinand Willaert, or whether the anonymous sitter in question is a studio model. The drawing optimises chalk’s tonal range to explore light and shadow, illuminating the man’s strong facial features with an impressive dimensionality. The tight shading, enclosed within confident outer lines, and the absence of background serve to further elevate the man’s profile.

Please contact us for a full catalogue entry.