Zelfportret: B-1-1, 25 februari - Cor van Teeseling

A minimalist self-portrait in graphite by Dutch artist Cor van Teeseling, capturing the artist at work in 1942.

This self-portrait by the Dutch artist Cor van Teeseling, dated 25 February 1942, offers a direct and unadorned view of the artist at work. Executed in graphite, the drawing relies on a clean, continuous line to define the figure. Van Teeseling depicts himself in a three-quarter view, holding a drawing board or sketchbook, which anchors the composition and provides context for his activity. The artist wears a loose garment, rendered with soft, flowing folds that contrast with the precise contours of his face and hands.

The economy of the line work is characteristic of Van Teeseling's approach to portraiture during this period. He avoids heavy shading or tonal modelling, choosing instead to focus on the structural clarity of the subject. His gaze is directed toward the viewer, creating a sense of immediate engagement. The simplicity of the background ensures that the focus remains entirely on the artist's posture and expression. The signature and date are inscribed in the lower right corner, providing a clear record of the work's creation during the mid-twentieth century.

Van Teeseling's style in this piece reflects a disciplined observation. The drawing captures a quiet, reflective moment, stripped of unnecessary detail. The composition is balanced, with the diagonal of the drawing board providing a subtle counterpoint to the verticality of the figure. This work provides insight into the artist's technical process and his ability to convey character through minimal means. It is a study of focus and artistic identity, presented with a clarity that remains effective decades later. The paper tone is neutral, allowing the graphite lines to stand out with precision. This print is a faithful reproduction of the original drawing, preserving the subtle variations in line weight and the artist's original annotations.