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Study of a female head

Maria Cosway

1780

From the collection of Victoria and Albert Museum

Romanticism 18th Century Portrait

Dominant colour

Study of a female head is a 1780 by Maria Cosway, a Romanticism work, held at Victoria and Albert Museum.

Who painted this?: Maria Cosway
When & what style?: 1780 · Romanticism
Where can I see it?: Victoria and Albert Museum

About this work

This sketch shows a woman’s face and shoulders, drawn in pencil. Her hair is pulled back in soft curls, and she wears a loose, draped garment. The lines are light but precise, with shading that gives her skin a smooth look. The artist used quick, layered strokes to build up shadows—this is called *stippling*. It’s a way to add depth without heavy lines. Next, check out stippling to see how other artists used this technique.