Susanna Fourment Peter Paul Rubens (1577-1640)

The drawing presents a bust-length portrait of a woman viewed in three-quarter profile. The subjects gaze is directed towards the viewer, creating a direct and intimate connection. Her expression appears thoughtful, perhaps even slightly melancholic; the subtle downturn of her mouth contributes to this impression.
Here we see an individual with fair skin rendered through delicate gradations of charcoal and touches of red chalk that define the cheeks and lips. The hair is elaborately styled, arranged in soft waves and curls around her face, partially concealed by a ribbon tied at the side. This detail suggests a degree of formality or social standing. A high-necked garment with intricate lace detailing frames her collarbone, adding to the sense of refinement.
The artist employed a loose, expressive technique; lines are not consistently precise but rather suggest form and volume through their varying thickness and density. The background is left largely unrendered, allowing focus to remain entirely on the subject’s face and upper torso. This simplicity enhances the immediacy of the portrait.
Subtly, theres a sense of vulnerability conveyed by the woman’s gaze and expression. While her posture is upright and dignified, the softness in her features hints at an inner life beyond what can be readily observed. The drawing seems to capture not just a likeness but also a fleeting moment of introspection or quiet contemplation. The artist’s choice to depict her in this manner suggests an interest in portraying psychological depth rather than merely physical appearance.

The inscription visible at the top left corner indicates that this is likely a study, perhaps intended as preliminary work for a larger composition.