Zelfportret en face met pet en stropdas - Cor van Teeseling

A precise graphite self-portrait by Dutch artist Cor van Teeseling, dated 1942, capturing a direct and contemplative frontal view.

This graphite portrait by the Dutch artist Cor van Teeseling, dated 18 March 1942, captures the artist in a direct, frontal pose. The drawing displays a disciplined approach to form, utilising subtle shading to define the contours of the face and the texture of the clothing. Van Teeseling depicts himself wearing a cap and a tie, elements that provide a sense of period-specific attire while maintaining a focus on the psychological presence of the subject.

The composition is minimalist, stripping away background detail to concentrate entirely on the facial features. The eyes are rendered with particular care, conveying a steady gaze that engages the viewer. The artist employs a range of graphite tones, from the soft, blended shadows along the jawline to the firmer, more defined lines of the collar and cap. This technical precision allows for a clear articulation of volume and structure without the need for excessive ornamentation.

Van Teeseling, active during the mid-twentieth century, often produced works that reflect a quiet, observational quality. This self-portrait is a clear example of his ability to document his own likeness with technical accuracy. The work is signed and dated in the lower right corner, providing a specific temporal anchor for the piece. As a study in graphite, it offers a glimpse into the artist's practice of self-examination during a period of significant historical upheaval in Europe. The restraint shown in the execution of the hair and the fabric of the jacket demonstrates a focus on clarity and form, characteristic of his broader body of work.