#37899 Egon Schiele (1890-1918)

The drawing presents a portrait of a man seated in what appears to be an armchair. The figure is rendered with a rapid, expressive line, suggesting a focus on capturing essence rather than precise detail. A sense of immediacy and spontaneity pervades the work.
Here we see the subject depicted from the chest upwards, angled slightly towards the viewer. His gaze is direct, almost confrontational, contributing to an atmosphere of intense scrutiny. The man’s features are sharply defined – a prominent nose, thin lips, and closely cropped hair – all rendered with quick, decisive strokes. He wears a suit jacket and tie, indicating a degree of formality or professional status.
The artist has employed a limited tonal range, relying primarily on the density of lines to suggest shading and volume. This technique emphasizes the contours of the face and body, creating a somewhat skeletal appearance. The chair itself is sketched with similar urgency, its form suggested through overlapping lines rather than solid shapes. A smaller, secondary profile appears in the upper right corner, seemingly an echo or reflection of the main subject. Its presence introduces a layer of complexity – perhaps suggesting introspection, duality, or multiple perspectives on the individual portrayed.
The drawing’s subtexts revolve around themes of observation and psychological intensity. The direct gaze and stark rendering suggest a probing examination of character. The inclusion of the secondary profile hints at an exploration of inner life or hidden aspects of personality. The rapid execution lends a sense of urgency, as if the artist were attempting to capture a fleeting moment or impression. Overall, the work conveys a feeling of restrained emotion and intellectual engagement.