Head of van de Velde, Bright (Kopf van de Velde, Hell)

Ernst Ludwig Kirchner

National Gallery of Art

The image shows a close-up of a man's face depicted in a bold, graphic style. The man's face is the primary focus, with only his head and neck visible. His head is large in proportion to any background elements and is depicted with strong, exaggerated lines and a stony texture that emphasizes facial features. The hair is styled in a neat, combed look, although the distinct lines give it an abstract quality. He has a long, rectangular face and deep-set, weary eyes that look forward. The man's clothing is not clearly detailed, except for a suggestion of a collar or neckline. The background consists of angular shapes that resemble buildings and mountains. The entire composition is monochromatic, using only varying shades of black and white.