#45181 Arturo Souto

The drawing presents a reclining figure rendered in charcoal on paper. The subject lies upon their left side, with the head turned towards the viewer at an oblique angle. A dense mass of dark hair obscures much of the back of the head and shoulders, contrasting sharply with the lighter tones of the skin.
The artist employed a rapid, gestural style; lines are loose and expressive, conveying a sense of immediacy and movement rather than precise anatomical detail. The body is delineated through a network of intersecting strokes that suggest volume and form. Theres an emphasis on the contours of the face – the brow furrowed slightly, the mouth closed in what might be interpreted as contemplation or weariness.
The limited tonal range contributes to a somber mood. The use of charcoal allows for a broad spectrum of gray values, from deep blacks that define shadows to lighter areas suggesting highlights. This restricted palette reinforces the introspective nature of the subject’s pose and expression.
Subtleties in the drawing suggest a narrative beyond mere representation. The figures posture implies vulnerability and repose, yet there is also an underlying tension conveyed through the furrowed brow and the slight downturn of the mouth. It could be interpreted as a depiction of exhaustion, melancholy, or perhaps quiet resilience. The lack of background context further isolates the subject, intensifying the focus on their internal state.
The inscription in the lower left corner – 7 Februa 1935 Roma – provides temporal and geographical information, anchoring the work within a specific historical moment and location. This detail subtly informs our understanding of the drawing; it was created during a period marked by political instability and personal turmoil for the artist, which may have influenced the somber tone and introspective subject matter.