Zelfportret: B-1-1, 14 januari - Cor van Teeseling

A quiet and precise graphite self-portrait by Dutch artist Cor van Teeseling, dated 1948, capturing the artist with minimal, delicate line work.

This self-portrait by the Dutch artist Cor van Teeseling, dated 14 January 1948, offers a direct and unadorned view of the artist. Executed in graphite on paper, the work relies on a restrained application of line to define the facial structure and features. The artist captures his own likeness with a focus on the contours of the eyes, nose, and mouth, avoiding heavy shading or dramatic chiaroscuro. The composition is centred, presenting a bust-length view that encourages a quiet observation of the subject.

Van Teeseling employs a delicate touch, allowing the texture of the paper to remain visible throughout the drawing. The hair is rendered with soft, rhythmic strokes that suggest volume without overwhelming the overall clarity of the image. The collar of the garment is sketched with similar economy, providing a base for the head to rest upon. This approach reflects a mid-twentieth-century interest in the psychological potential of the portrait, where the artist seeks to document his own appearance with precision and objectivity.

The drawing is marked by a sense of stillness. By eschewing unnecessary detail, Van Teeseling directs the viewer to the gaze of the subject. The work functions as a personal record, typical of the artist's practice of documenting his own image over time. As a piece of historical documentation, it provides insight into the technical methods of a Dutch artist working in the post-war period. The simplicity of the medium and the directness of the execution make this a compelling example of twentieth-century portraiture, suitable for those who appreciate the understated power of a pencil study.