#05678 William Holman Hunt

Here we observe a drawing executed in pencil, depicting a young boy in profile. The subject is positioned facing left, his gaze directed upwards and slightly outwards, suggesting a moment of contemplation or observation. The artist has rendered the features with a delicate precision, emphasizing the contours of the face and the texture of the short, neatly-cut hair. A subtle smile plays on the lips, hinting at an underlying sense of quiet amusement or perhaps youthful confidence.
The rendering of light and shadow is achieved through varying degrees of pencil pressure, creating a three-dimensional effect that gives volume to the boy’s features. The neck appears slender, and the collar of his garment – likely a shirt or tunic – is indicated with simple lines suggesting folds and texture.
The drawings intimacy stems from its scale and the directness of the portrayal. It is not a formal portrait; rather, it conveys an impression of spontaneity and immediacy. The artist seems to have captured a fleeting moment in the boy’s life, preserving his likeness with remarkable sensitivity.
At the bottom left corner, theres inscription April 22, 1877 alongside what appears to be a signature. This provides contextual information regarding the date of creation and likely identifies the artist. The presence of this notation reinforces the sense that this is a personal study or sketch rather than a finished work intended for public display.
Subtly, the drawing evokes themes of childhood innocence and the passage of time. The boy’s youthful appearance contrasts with the formality of the inscription, creating a poignant juxtaposition between fleeting moments and enduring records. It suggests a desire to memorialize a specific point in his life – a snapshot of youth preserved for posterity.