Left and Right George Lambert (1700-1765)

The drawing presents a striking juxtaposition of human form and gesture, dominated by the forceful extension of an arm and the contemplative gaze of a face. Here we see a figure rendered in charcoal with considerable detail, emphasizing texture and volume through dense hatching and cross-hatching. The left side of the composition is occupied primarily by a powerfully flexed arm, the hand clenched into a fist. This limb appears to be emerging from a shadowed area, suggesting dynamism and perhaps an implied movement away from the viewer.
The artist depicted the arm with meticulous attention to musculature; tendons are visible beneath the skin, contributing to a sense of raw physicality. The sleeve of what seems to be a shirt or jacket is loosely sketched, adding another layer of texture and visual interest. This forceful gesture contrasts sharply with the figure’s face on the right side.
The facial features are rendered with a degree of realism that highlights age and character. Deep lines etch themselves around the eyes and mouth, suggesting experience and perhaps weariness. The mans gaze is directed towards the viewer, but it holds an element of introspection rather than direct engagement. His hands, clasped together in front of his face, further reinforce this sense of inward reflection.
The composition’s asymmetry creates a visual tension between action and contemplation. The extended arm seems to embody assertive energy, while the face represents restraint and quiet observation. This duality suggests a possible exploration of opposing forces – perhaps will versus reason, or action versus thought. The presence of what appears to be script written across the background adds another layer of complexity; it is unclear whether this text is integral to the meaning of the drawing or merely an incidental element of its creation.
The overall effect is one of profound psychological depth, inviting viewers to consider the interplay between physical action and internal reflection within a single human figure.