Maris, Matthijs – Portretstudie, 1856 Rijksmuseum: part 3

The portrait presents a young man viewed in three-quarter profile, his gaze directed slightly off-center and downward. The artist has chosen a close framing, emphasizing the subjects face and upper torso. A palpable sense of immediacy arises from the directness of the portrayal; it feels less like a formal presentation and more like a captured moment.
The color palette is dominated by warm earth tones – browns, ochres, and russets – which are particularly evident in the rendering of the unruly hair. The artist employs loose brushstrokes to depict this element, creating a textural dynamism that contrasts with the smoother application used for the skin. Light falls across the face from an unseen source, highlighting the prominent nose and cheekbones while casting deep shadows beneath the chin and around the eyes. This chiaroscuro effect contributes to a feeling of introspection or melancholy.
The subject’s expression is complex; its not overtly joyful nor sorrowful but rather suggests a quiet pensiveness. The slight downturn of the mouth, combined with the averted gaze, hints at an internal preoccupation. Theres a vulnerability in his posture and facial features that invites speculation about his emotional state.
The clothing appears simple – a dark jacket or coat over what seems to be a loosely tied shirt or scarf – further directing attention toward the individual’s character rather than outward appearances. The lack of elaborate detail in the background reinforces this focus, creating an intimate space for contemplation.
Subtly, theres a sense of realism that transcends mere representation. It is not simply a likeness but an attempt to convey something about the subjects inner life – a fleeting moment of reflection or perhaps even a quiet struggle. The painting’s unfinished quality, particularly noticeable in the background and some areas of the hair, suggests it might be a study, a preliminary work intended for further development, which adds another layer of intimacy to the encounter with the depicted individual.