A luminous and poetic portrait of Charlie Chaplin, the master of silent emotion and timeless comedy.
No paint, no print, no ink. His presence appears purely through structure, shadow and reflection. From afar the unmistakable outline of Chaplin’s bowler hat and expression emerge with delicate clarity. Up close the image dissolves into abstraction, each brass nail catching light against the deep matte black of acrylic glass.
Solid brass meets darkness, a balance of warmth and restraint. Every reflection hints at his genius, where humor and melancholy lived side by side. The golden tone of brass glows softly against the black surface, evoking both nostalgia and quiet strength.
Over time the brass may develop a natural patina, giving each work a living surface that matures with character, just as Chaplin’s art did through the years.
As light moves the portrait transforms. From the side it becomes sculptural and alive. From the front his gaze returns, human, gentle and eternal.
This piece is part of the second collection of Art with Nails by Tijs Dragtsma, realized in a strictly limited edition of ten. Each artwork is slightly unique but always part of the same vision.
Framed in a handmade Dutch float frame in matte black wood with a brushed gold edge, signed and numbered on the reverse, this work stands as both homage and reinterpretation. A contemporary tribute to one of the greatest storytellers in film history.
About the Artist, Tijs Dragtsma
Part of the Art with Nails series by Tijs Dragtsma, this work is created with a self-developed technique that transforms classic nail art into a bold modern context. By focusing on pure materials and the interplay of strength and fragility, Dragtsma reimagines timeless icons with powerful presence.
Specifications Title: Charlie Chaplin in Brass Collection: Second Collection of Art with Nails, Brass Edition 2025 Edition: Limited to 3 pieces. Medium: Solid brass nails Background: Matte black acrylic glass Frame: Handmade Dutch float frame in matte black wood with brushed gold edge, ready to hang Year: 2025 Condition: New, signed Includes: Certificate of Authenticity (COA) Dimensions (incl. frame): 53 × 53 × 4 cm
