Nocturnal

The piece depicts an upper body figure in the foreground, following the rules of classical portrait painting. The torso is separated from the background as a result of the effects of light that appear on the shoulders, while the light intensifies towards the face, in an accentuated chiaroscuro
that brings to mind a setting evocative of baroque tenebrism. The thin-faced man with sharp features is wearing attire typical of a high social class. A folded handkerchief sticks out of the jacket’s pocket and offers a touch of color to the predominant dark shades.

The individual’s scruffy appearance reflects a drama of an existential character that the author stresses with gestural resources, drawing attention to the posture of the hand clenched over the chest, the disheveled hair and the gloomy expression on his face. In line with his body language, the author makes the untidy appearance of the suit evident, the wrinkled shirt due to excessive use, and the poorly knotted tie, creating an ensemble that depicts an atmosphere of agonizing loneliness.