Naar links kijkende man - Jean Augustin Daiwaille

A refined nineteenth-century lithograph by Jean Augustin Daiwaille, depicting a man in profile with precise anatomical detail.

This lithograph by Jean Augustin Daiwaille presents a study of a man in profile, oriented towards the left. Daiwaille, a Dutch artist active during the early nineteenth century, gained recognition for his technical proficiency in the medium of lithography. This work demonstrates his ability to capture anatomical detail and subtle tonal variations through the application of lithographic crayon on stone.

The subject is rendered with a focus on the structural features of the face, including the prominent jawline and the contours of the neck. The artist employs a restrained approach, using fine hatching to suggest shadow and volume without overwhelming the composition. The figure is draped in a simple garment, which directs the viewer's attention to the expressive quality of the facial features. The inclusion of the mark 'No. 3' at the top suggests this piece was part of a larger series or a drawing manual, common for artists of the period who produced instructional materials for students of fine art.

Daiwaille was a significant figure in the development of Dutch lithography, often collaborating with other artists to refine the process. His work frequently reflects the academic standards of the time, prioritising clarity of form and precise observation. The print retains the original margins and the faint inscription 'Lith. van J.A. Daiwaille' at the base, confirming its origin in his studio. This piece offers an insight into the technical exercises and portrait studies that defined the practice of professional lithographers in the early nineteenth century. The composition remains balanced, providing a clear example of the period's interest in physiognomy and the study of the human form.