420 - I. CLAUSSIN (*1766) after BOISSIEU (*1736), Portrait studies of older people, Etching

I. CLAUSSIN (*1766) after BOISSIEU (*1736), Portrait studies of older people, Etching Ignace Joseph de Claussin (around 1766 Lunéville (Meurthe-et-Moselle) - 1844 Les Batignolles (Paris)) after Jean Jacques de Boissieu (1736 Lyon - 1810 ibid.): Portrait studies of older people Portrait studies of older people in various forms of expression, 18th century, Etching Technique: Etching on Paper Inscription: Lower right signed in the printing plate: "De Boissieu". Date: 18th century Description: The picture shows a collection of eight portrait studies of elderly men and a woman, depicted in various poses and facial expressions. The figures are drawn in three-quarter view or profile, which allows detailed observation of the facial features. The clothing is simple and varies from headdresses to simple cloaks. The facial expressions range from pensive to serious, suggesting deep inner reflection. The composition is dense, with the portraits close together and surrounded by fine hatching that gives the figures depth. The lighting emphasises the striking features and lends the portraits a sculptural effect. There is no narrative structure; instead, the focus is on the diversity of human physiognomy. Keywords: Portraits; Facial expression; Age; Hatching; Headgear; Three-quarter view; Profile; Depth; Light and shadow; Physiognomy; Study; Sketch; Humanity; Reflection; Simplicity; Texture; Detail; Composition; Drawing.; 18th century; Baroque; Portraits; Italy; Size: Paper: 28,6 cm x 35,4 cm (11,3 x 13,9 in), Plate: 26,3 cm x 20,7 cm (10,4 x 8,1 in), Depiction: 22,1 cm x 19,0 cm (8,7 x 7,5 in) Condition: Rather good condition. Pale foxing in the margin and somewhat fingerstained along the edges. Distinctive creases at lower left. Overall somewhat creased and the corners of the sheet minimally bumped.