Portrait of Cesare Borgia Antoine Calbet (1860-1944)

The drawing presents a man in profile, framed within a circular border that suggests both containment and isolation. He is depicted with a stern expression; his gaze directed forward, conveying a sense of unwavering resolve or perhaps guarded suspicion. The artist has rendered the face with meticulous detail, emphasizing the prominent brow, strong jawline, and the slight downturn of the mouth – features contributing to an overall impression of authority and potential severity.
The man is clad in vibrant red garments; a tunic and cap that dominate the composition’s color palette. This intense hue immediately draws attention and can be interpreted as symbolizing power, passion, or even aggression. The folds of the fabric are rendered with considerable skill, creating depth and volume while also suggesting movement and dynamism.
He holds a sword in his right hand, positioned across his chest. The weapon is not brandished threateningly but rather rests casually, implying readiness and control. This detail reinforces an image of military prowess and potential for violence, hinting at the subject’s capacity to enforce his will.
The background is treated with a looser, more gestural approach, utilizing hatching and cross-hatching techniques to create a sense of atmospheric depth. The swirling lines evoke a feeling of turbulence or unrest, possibly reflecting the political climate surrounding this individual.
Subtly, the circular frame contributes to an aura of confinement; it suggests that the subject is both powerful and trapped by his circumstances or reputation. The contrast between the detailed rendering of the face and the more abstract background creates a visual hierarchy, directing the viewer’s attention to the mans expression and demeanor. Overall, the drawing conveys a complex portrait of a figure who embodies strength, ambition, and perhaps a degree of inner turmoil.