Artist: After Melville
Title: New Hat
Date: Not specified
Medium: Aquatint
Dimensions: 30.48 x 22.86 cm
Condition Report: Overall good condition

Description:
This aquatint presents a bust portrait of an indigenous man adorned with an elaborate headpiece. The subject's intense expression and direct gaze towards the left side of the frame suggest a moment of action or engagement, capturing the viewer's attention. The artist's careful rendering of the facial features and headpiece demonstrates a deep understanding of both the cultural significance of the attire and the individual character of the sitter. The aquatint technique, known for its ability to create soft gradations of tone, enhances the depth and realism of the portrait, making the spontaneity of the moment almost palpable.