Pastel Portrait of a Bearded Man

Pastel Portrait of a Bearded Man Signed lower right (indistinct) Pastel on toned paper Image size approx. 54 × 36.5 cm; framed and glazed 72.5 x 55 This expressive pastel portrait depicts the head of a bearded man in three-quarter profile, rendered with a vibrant, layered application of colour. The artist employs a warm palette of pinks, ochres and russets highlighted with cooler blue and white accents, giving the composition a lively chromatic energy while maintaining sensitive modelling of the sitter’s facial structure. The brisk handling of the medium—visible in the dynamic strokes around the hair and beard—contrasts with the more controlled tonal transitions across the forehead, nose and cheek, demonstrating a confident command of pastel. The work is executed on a neutral toned ground, allowing the pigments to sit brightly on the surface and enhancing the depth of the flesh tones. The dramatic fall of light lend the portrait an almost academic or atelier character. The signature at lower right appears stylised but is not readily legible. Professionally mounted and presented in a restrained frame, the portrait has strong decorative impact and displays both technical fluency and a compelling psychological presence.