The artwork titled “Profile of an old man” is attributed to the eminent artist Leonardo da Vinci and hails from circa 1505, during the period when the artist resided in Florence, Italy. Created using ink on paper, this piece is a quintessential example of sketch and study genre prevalent in the High Renaissance movement. It is held within the esteemed collection of the Uffizi Gallery in Florence, Italy.
The artwork presents the viewer with the profile of an elderly male figure, rendered with great attention to detail that is characteristic of Leonardo’s work. The man’s visage is depicted with a pronounced sense of realism and depth, capturing the intricate lines and contours of aging skin. His forehead is high and balding, with wrinkles that suggest a lifetime of expressions. The man’s eye is deeply set beneath a furrowed brow, reflecting a sense of contemplation or inner thought.
Leonardo’s skill in chiaroscuro is evident in the interplay of light and shadow across the man’s face, giving the portrait a three-dimensional quality. The nose is distinctive with a prominent bridge, leading down to full lips set in a firm line, and a strong, angular jaw that completes the profile. The careful cross-hatching and delicate strokes lend texture to the man’s skin, and the meticulousness of the ink work showcases the artist’s dedication to anatomical studies. The neck and upper shoulder are also sketched, indicating the posture and position of the figure.
Overall, this study is not only a testament to Leonardo’s mastery in capturing the human form but also provides insight into his ongoing exploration of human anatomy and the effects of age on the body, which were subjects of enduring fascination for the artist throughout his career.
