Study of a Bearded Man in Profile, ca. 1526–27
Black chalk, possibly with gray wash
8 9/16 x 7 1/8 in. (21.8 x 18.1 cm)
Galleria degli Uffizi, Gabinetto Disegni e Stampe, Florence
Courtesy the Ministero dei beni e delle attività culturali e del turismo
In this study for a disciple in Andrea's Last Supper in the refectory of the church of San Salvi, the artist indulges in his model's expressive physiognomy. Wisps of hair seem to fly from his scalp and chin, while judicious reserves (areas of untouched paper) emphasize his sunken cheeks and tightened muscles at the forehead and temple. In a second sketch of the eye area, Andrea experiments with a curling eyebrow and long, straight lashes, accentuating the figure's concentrated gaze at the drama unfolding at Christ's table.