#22350 Leon Bakst

The drawing presents a portrait study of a man, executed in graphite on paper. The subject is positioned centrally within the frame and depicted from the chest upwards, adopting a formal pose that suggests a commissioned work or a deliberate attempt at capturing likeness. He faces directly towards the viewer with an expression that appears to be one of restrained composure; his gaze is steady, and his mouth set in a slight, almost imperceptible smile.
The artist has rendered the man’s features with a degree of precision, though the overall effect leans toward a sketch rather than a fully realized portrait. The hair is neatly styled, dark, and receding slightly from the forehead, contributing to an impression of maturity and perhaps even authority. A well-groomed mustache adds further to this sense of cultivated appearance.
The clothing – a collared shirt with a tie – is rendered in broad strokes, emphasizing the folds and texture of the fabric rather than precise detail. The artist’s handling of light and shadow is notable; it creates a subtle modeling effect that defines the planes of the face and body, though without resorting to strong contrasts. This contributes to a sense of quiet dignity.
The background is left largely unrendered, allowing the focus to remain entirely on the subject. A faint indication of shading suggests an undefined space behind him. The signature, located in the lower right corner, appears as a cursive inscription, adding a personal touch and confirming the work’s authorship.
Subtly, the drawing conveys a sense of social standing or professional identity. The mans attire and posture suggest someone accustomed to formality and perhaps holding a position of some importance. However, the sketch-like quality introduces an element of informality, hinting at a more intimate moment captured during the process of creating a larger work. It is not merely a representation but also a record of observation and artistic exploration.