Crescenzo Fusciardi John Singer Sargent (1856-1925)

Here we observe a charcoal drawing depicting a young man in profile. The subjects gaze is directed upwards and slightly to the left, conveying a sense of introspection or perhaps melancholy. His expression is subtle; not overtly joyful nor sorrowful, but rather contemplative.
The artist has rendered the figure with a loose, gestural style characteristic of preparatory sketches. Lines are fluid and energetic, particularly in the depiction of the hair which cascades around his shoulders and neck in voluminous curls. The shading is applied to suggest volume and form, though without meticulous detail. A strong emphasis on light and shadow defines the contours of the face and neck, highlighting a delicate jawline and a prominent brow.
The composition is tightly cropped, focusing solely on the head and upper torso. This close framing intensifies the viewers focus on the subject’s features and emotional state. The lack of background context further isolates the figure, suggesting an emphasis on his inner world rather than external circumstances.
Beneath the portrait, a handwritten inscription identifies the sitter as Crescenzo Fusciardi along with an address and date. This textual element provides a biographical anchor to the image, grounding it in reality while simultaneously adding another layer of intrigue – the intimacy of a personal record accompanying a likeness. The presence of this notation suggests that the drawing might have been intended for private use or as a preliminary study for a more finished work.
The overall effect is one of quiet dignity and understated emotion. It’s not merely a representation of physical appearance, but an attempt to capture something of the sitters character and inner life through expressive linework and subtle shading.