Ingres Felix Leblanc Jean Auguste Dominique Ingres (1780-1867)

The drawing presents a young boy in a three-quarter pose, viewed from the side. He stands with one hand tucked into his coat pocket and the other holding a small book or notebook. The figures posture conveys a sense of self-assurance and perhaps even slight arrogance; he looks directly out at the viewer with an expression that is both confident and somewhat detached.
The artist’s handling of line is notable. A delicate, almost hesitant touch defines the contours of the boy’s face and body, while bolder strokes delineate the folds in his clothing. The use of hatching and cross-hatching creates a subtle play of light and shadow, suggesting volume without resorting to extensive shading. This technique contributes to an overall impression of refinement and elegance.
The boys attire is characteristic of early 19th-century fashion: a dark coat with high collar, breeches, and buckled shoes. The details of the clothing – the buttons, the lapels, the cut of the trousers – are rendered with precision, indicating an interest in accurate representation. This attention to detail suggests that the work might be intended as a portrait or a study for one.
The background is left largely unrendered, which focuses the viewer’s attention entirely on the figure. The simplicity of the composition reinforces the sense of formality and restraint. A handwritten inscription at the bottom provides additional information about the subject and date of creation.
Beyond the straightforward depiction of a young boy, the drawing hints at broader subtexts concerning social status and education. The clothing suggests a family of some means, while the book implies an interest in learning or intellectual pursuits. The confident gaze might be interpreted as a sign of privilege and expectation. Overall, the work offers a glimpse into the world of a young man poised on the threshold of adulthood, embodying ideals of propriety and refinement prevalent during its time.