Portrait of Edward Burne-Jones Charles Fairfax Murray (1849-1919)

The drawing presents a male figure in profile, rendered primarily in shades of brown and ochre with subtle hints of grey. The subject is depicted from roughly mid-torso upwards, his gaze directed towards the left of the composition. A full beard dominates the lower portion of the face, its texture suggested through rapid, layered strokes that convey both density and a degree of wildness. The hair, similarly rendered, falls loosely around the shoulders, contributing to an overall impression of unkemptness or perhaps artistic disinterest in conventional grooming.
The artist employed a technique characterized by loose brushwork and a lack of precise outlining. This approach lends a sense of immediacy and spontaneity to the work; it feels less like a carefully constructed representation and more like a fleeting observation captured on paper. The tonal range is limited, yet effectively utilized to model the planes of the face and suggest volume. Light appears to originate from the upper left, casting shadows that define the contours of the nose, cheekbones, and jawline.
A horizontal band across the lower portion of the image serves as a grounding element, though its purpose remains ambiguous – it could be interpreted as a table or ledge. Beneath this band, faint traces of what appear to be discarded objects – possibly spectacles – are visible, adding a layer of narrative complexity. The presence of these items hints at a moment interrupted, a glimpse into the subject’s personal space and routine.
The inscription near the upper left corner, though partially obscured, provides a textual element that anchors the image within a specific context. It seems to contain a name and dates, suggesting this is a portrait intended as a record of identity and time.
Subtly, theres an air of melancholy or introspection conveyed through the subject’s posture and expression. The downward tilt of his head and the averted gaze suggest a contemplative mood, perhaps hinting at inner thoughts or anxieties. This, combined with the somewhat disheveled appearance, contributes to a sense of quiet dignity and intellectual depth. The drawing avoids overt sentimentality, instead opting for a restrained portrayal that invites further consideration of the subject’s character and circumstances.