Ingres Otto Magnus von Stackelberg and possibly Jackob Linckh Jean Auguste Dominique Ingres (1780-1867)

The drawing presents two male figures positioned closely together in a three-quarter view. Both men possess fair complexions and share similar facial features, suggesting either kinship or a deliberate attempt at visual mirroring by the artist. Their hair is styled in elaborate curls characteristic of early nineteenth-century fashion, adding to an impression of cultivated gentility.
The composition is dominated by the faces, rendered with considerable detail that emphasizes their expressions. The man on the left exhibits a direct gaze and a subtle smile, conveying confidence and perhaps a touch of amusement. His counterpart, positioned slightly behind and to the right, offers a more open, almost playful expression. This difference in demeanor creates a dynamic between them, hinting at distinct personalities within a shared context.
The men are dressed in formal attire – dark jackets with high collars and cravats – indicating their social standing. The artist has employed hatching and cross-hatching techniques to model the forms and suggest texture in the clothing, creating a sense of depth and volume. Lines are used extensively not only for outlining but also for defining light and shadow across the faces and garments.
The background is largely absent, directing full attention towards the figures themselves. The lack of environmental context contributes to an air of formality and suggests that this might be a portrait study or a preliminary sketch intended to capture likenesses rather than a depiction of a specific scene.
Subtly, theres a sense of intimacy conveyed through their proximity. Their shoulders nearly touch, suggesting a comfortable familiarity. The artist’s decision to place them so close together implies a relationship worthy of documentation – whether it be familial, professional, or personal remains open to interpretation. The inscription at the bottom left corner provides some indication of authorship and date, but does not clarify the nature of their connection.