The old man and his hat — Pencil on Paper by Arnaud Quercy

About This Artwork

This drawing explores the fragmentation and reconstruction of human identity through geometric abstraction. Part of the Mediterranean Echoes collection, the work deconstructs a portrait into angular planes and overlapping forms that suggest both architectural structure and human presence. The composition examines how cubist principles can capture the essence of character through geometric interpretation rather than realistic representation.

The image presents a complex arrangement of intersecting geometric shapes rendered in graphite tones. Angular forms dominate the composition, with triangular and rectangular planes creating a fragmented portrait structure. Curved elements appear throughout, softening the geometric severity and suggesting organic human features. The pencil technique creates varied tonal depths, with darker areas providing structural emphasis while lighter zones allow forms to merge and separate. Radiating lines extend from central focal points, creating dynamic movement across the paper surface.

Created at Gare de Lyon in Paris, this work measures 14.8 × 21.0 cm on paper. The drawing bears the artist's signature on the front and comes with certificate of authenticity number 20221231-0056. The vertical format concentrates the geometric complexity into a compact composition that maintains clarity despite its fragmented approach. This piece represents Quercy's contemporary interpretation of cubist portraiture, translating classical modernist techniques into current artistic practice.