Iron Biker by Patrick Mertens aka Pat Probleme

About "Iron Biker"

by Patrick Mertens aka Pat Probleme

About the artwork

This picture shows a close-up of a copper relief. The image depicts a face with a striking and somewhat ominous character. It looks like a caricature of a person.

The face is highly detailed and has a rough, textured finish, which is characteristic of cast metal. The patina of the metal is a striking turquoise-green colour, indicating oxidation of copper or bronze over a long period of time. This colour is dominant in the deeper parts of the relief, such as the eye sockets and shadows. The higher, projecting parts, such as the bridge of the nose, the lips, the brow and the edge of the hat, still have the original golden metallic colour, which provides a nice contrast and emphasises the three-dimensionality.

The figure wears a tight, close-fitting hat that covers the top of the head. The hat has a texture resembling rough stone or leather and has a distinct gold colour. The eyes are empty and dark, with deep, hollow eye sockets that create a mysterious and slightly creepy effect. The nose is long and narrow with a shiny, coppery tip. The mouth is wide and displays a grinning, somewhat sarcastic smile. The cheeks are convex and the jawline is broad. Curly, hair-like structures are visible on the sides of the face, possibly representing beard or hair locks.

The lighting is subtle and accentuates the texture and contours of the face. The light appears to come from above and from the left, casting deep shadows and strongly highlighting the relief details. The overall mood of the picture is mysterious, old and artistic.