Abstracted Portrait Study
Work on paper / Drawing • Inscribed 'Somville' (likely a study or work in the manner of Roger Somville, Belgian, 1923–2014)
Style & Movement
Modern Expressive Realism / Post-War European Expressionism
Medium & Technique
Ink wash and charcoal or graphite on paper; techniques include expressive gestural line work, tonal shading, and wet-on-dry brush application.
Creation Period
1969 (based on inscription)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 15 x 20 cm (small-format study); landscape orientation on paper.
Subject Description
A close-up, highly abstracted view of a human face in profile. The composition emphasizes the eye and the contour of the nose and chin through bold, energetic lines. The dark, dense treatment of the eye and the sweeping wash along the bottom suggest a sense of psychological intensity or introspection characteristic of mid-century expressionism.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good/Very Good; the paper appears relatively clean with minimal oxidation, though edges show slight signs of handling consistent with its age.
Estimated Market Value
$400 - $800 USD (as a small-scale study on paper)
Auction Estimate
$300 - $600 USD
Provenance History
Unknown; likely from a private sketchbook or collection, given the casual mounting and handwriting. The signature 'Somville 1969' is the primary indicator of provenance.
Art Historical Significance
Representing the late 1960s shift toward more gestural and raw figurative abstraction, this piece mirrors the European 'New Figuration' movement. If confirmed by Roger Somville, it illustrates his transition from monumental social-realist themes to more intimate, expressive explorations of the human form.
Notable Features
Distinctive expressive shorthand for the facial features; dual-dated and signed inscription 'Somville 1969' in the upper-left margin; successful contrast between the delicate wash and the sharp, aggressive linework.
Condition Issues
Slight yellowing consistent with wood-pulp-based paper; minor rippling near the bottom edge due to moisture from the ink wash; adhesive residue likely on the reverse if mounted.
Conservation Recommendations
Remove from current acidic paper backing; mount using archival acid-free materials and UV-protective glazing to prevent ink fading and further paper oxidation.