The artwork entitled “Portrait of a Bearded Man” was created by the esteemed artist M.C. Escher in 1919. It belongs to the Cubism art movement and is classified within the portrait genre.
The artwork portrays a bearded man and exemplifies the stylistic characteristics of Cubism through its abstract and geometric forms. The use of stark black and white contrasts accentuates the sharp lines and fragmented appearance that are hallmarks of Cubism. The facial features of the man, including the eyes and mouth, are stylized and angular, contributing to a sense of depth and focus despite the simplicity of the color palette. The composition predominantly features bold diagonal lines and angular shapes, portraying a distinct emotional intensity in the subject’s expression. The minimalistic yet powerful use of form and line effectively conveys a contemplative or troubled demeanor in the bearded man.