The linearity of this work is particularly striking - definition of the figure depends greatly on outline, with only light shading. The facial features are strongly defined, with even the lips being outlined. Colour is used sparingly to great effect to show the sitter's eyes as intense blue, and is also used lightly on his hair. This drawing is typical of Freud's early work, which is characterised by a taut, unbroken line. The subject of this drawing is unknown. Drawings form the major component of Freud's work during the 1940s but he concentrated predominently on painting from the mid 1950s.