Young Man in a Soft Cap
1635
chalk
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
This sketch shows a young man wearing a soft cap pulled low over his forehead. His hair curls slightly under the brim, and he’s dressed in a loose, draped shirt with one hand tucked inside. The lines are quick and light, almost like a hurried sketch—some areas are barely more than strokes. The drawing feels alive, with shadows and light playing across his face and neck. The artist left some edges rough, making it look like a first try rather than a finished piece. If you like this style, check out Baroque next.