Artwork

Two Heads

Two Heads, by Paul Cézanne, graphite, 1888
Two Heads, by Paul Cézanne, graphite, 1888

Two Heads is a graphite drawing by the Impressionist artist Paul Cézanne. It dates from 1888 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

Inscription
Inscribed:by later hand, lower left in graphite: IX; by later hand, lower right in graphite: 17

About this work

Overview

Two Heads is a drawing by Paul Cézanne, created in 1888 using graphite on wove paper.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts two faces in close proximity, their features largely undefined, with the heads tilted towards each other. The omission of details such as eyes and mouths suggests a focus on overall form and gesture.

Technique & Style

Executed in quick, loose lines, the graphite strokes on the light beige paper are rough and uneven, conveying a sense of spontaneity. The unfinished quality of the faces implies a rapid study rather than a carefully considered work.

Two Heads of Women
Two Heads of Women, Paul Cézanne

Artist & collection

Portrait of Paul Cézanne

Artist

Paul Cézanne

Paul Cézanne ( say-ZAN, UK also siz-AN, US also say-ZAHN; French: ; Occitan: Pau Cesana; 19 January 1839 – 22 October 1906) was a French Post-Impressionist painter whose work introduced new modes of representation,…

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.

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Frequently asked questions

Who painted Two Heads?

Two Heads was painted by Paul Cézanne in 1888.

Where can I see Two Heads?

Two Heads is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Two Heads?

Two Heads is associated with Impressionism.

Can I buy a print of Two Heads?

Museum-quality prints of Two Heads are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.