Vanha Mies, 1904

This sketch titled "Vanha Mies" (Old Man) by Albert Edelfelt, dated 1904, is a detailed, expressive pencil drawing of an elderly man. The man in the sketch is depicted standing and slightly leaning on a cane, suggesting either a posture of rest or the necessity of the cane for support. He wears a long coat, buttoned unevenly, which falls open to reveal a simple shirt underneath. His attire includes boots that appear to be functional, possibly worn from use, and his pants are tucked into the boots, a practical detail for possibly rural or outdoor environments.The man’s face is aged, marked by lines and a prominent, averted gaze that communicates a quiet, contemplative mood. He wears a brimmed hat, giving him a distinguished look despite his simple dress. The expression captured by Edelfelt, particularly in the detailed lines of the man’s face, evokes a sense of lived experience and resilience. The overall composition and the attire suggest a timeless portrayal of elderly wisdom and endurance.The pencil technique employed by Edelfelt adds texture and depth, particularly in the rendering of the facial features and the folds of the clothing. The light sketchiness of the pencil work enhances the ephemeral, momentary feel of the portrait, suggesting a snapshot of everyday life captured with sensitivity and attention to emotive detail. This piece is a fine example of Edelfelt's skill in capturing human emotion and character through portraiture.