Study for an Apostle from The Last Supper Leonardo da Vinci (1452-1519)

This is a black-and-white charcoal sketch of an elderly man, likely an apostle, from Leonardo da Vincis The Last Supper. The man has a heavily lined face, a beard, and his hair is somewhat disheveled. He is dressed in simple robes and his hands are clasped together in front of him.
The sketch focuses on the emotional intensity of the individual. The furrowed brow, deep-set eyes, and the mouths pursed expression suggest inner turmoil and contemplation. This study is not just about anatomical representation but about capturing the psychological state of a figure during a pivotal moment of Christs betrayal announcement. The raw, energetic lines contribute to the feeling of immediacy and the artists intense engagement with his subject. The subtext lies in the profound humanity and emotional depth Leonardo sought to portray in each of the apostles, moving beyond mere physical likeness to explore their individual reactions and character.