Tolstoy

About this work

This sketch shows a bearded man with a serious face, looking slightly to the side. His hair and beard are drawn in quick, wavy lines, giving them a textured look. The artist used only black ink on a light background, focusing on the face and neck. The drawing feels quick and sketchy, almost like a study rather than a polished portrait. The lines are loose, especially around the hair and beard, which makes the face feel alive. Next, check out the technique: etching, drypoint, aquatint to see how artists like Legros created these kinds of prints.