Caricature of a Man with a Large Nose

This playful graphite drawing, made when the artist was just 15, captures a man in profile, his most striking feature an exaggerated, almost comical nose. The drawing is a caricature, a popular form of entertainment in mid-19th century France. The artist, then a teenager in Le Havre, was already gaining a local reputation for these witty portraits, often selling them for a few francs. Here, the man's head is tilted slightly back, his chin jutting out, creating a dynamic silhouette against the tan paper. Though simple in its execution, the sketch shows a keen eye for observation and a confident hand, suggesting an early talent for capturing personality and form. The delicate shading around the man's neck and the subtle lines defining his hair add a touch of refinement to an otherwise bold and humorous portrayal.