Le Brun, Charles – Portrait of Louis XIV. Part 2 Louvre

Here we observe a profile portrait rendered in charcoal and red chalk on paper. The subject is presented in three-quarter view, turned slightly towards the viewers left. A palpable sense of formality pervades the composition, despite the apparent informality of the medium.
The artist has meticulously captured the contours of the face, emphasizing a prominent nose and a strong jawline. The eyes are rendered with careful attention to detail, conveying an impression of focused intensity. The subject’s expression is one of quiet self-assurance; it avoids overt displays of emotion but suggests a certain inner strength.
The hair, depicted in swirling, textured strokes of charcoal, cascades down the shoulders and chest, creating a voluminous effect that contributes to the overall sense of grandeur. A simple garment, seemingly a tunic or robe, is indicated with broad washes of brown chalk, providing minimal detail and directing attention towards the face. The background is rendered in soft, muted tones, allowing the figure to emerge as the focal point.
The drawing’s subtexts are layered. While ostensibly a straightforward portrait, the meticulous rendering and formal pose suggest an intention beyond mere representation. Theres a deliberate construction of image – a projection of authority and dignity. The profile view itself is significant; it lends a sense of distance and aloofness, reinforcing the subject’s elevated status.
The choice of materials – charcoal and red chalk – adds another layer of complexity. Charcoal, with its inherent capacity for dramatic shading and expressive mark-making, contrasts with the more refined quality of red chalk, which allows for subtle tonal variations. This combination suggests a balance between power and refinement, strength and intellect. The sketchlike quality also implies an intimacy, as if we are granted access to a private moment in the creation of a larger, more formal work. Ultimately, this drawing functions not only as a portrait but also as a study in character and authority, carefully constructed to convey a specific image of power and presence.