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Life Study of a Female, by William Dyce, 1850

Life Study of a Female

William Dyce

1850

From the collection of Victoria and Albert Museum

Dominant colour

Overview

Life Study of a Female is a 1850 by William Dyce, held at Victoria and Albert Museum.

Who painted this?
William Dyce
When & what style?
1850
Where can I see it?
Victoria and Albert Museum

About this work

This drawing presents a nude female figure seated on a chair, her body turned to the left. Her head is bowed, and her hands are clasped together in front of her face. The subject's hair is pulled back, and she sits with her legs crossed. The chair appears to be a simple, cushioned design, and the subject's feet rest on a low platform or step. The background of the drawing is plain, with no discernible details or features. The artist's use of line and shading creates a sense of depth and volume in the figure, drawing the viewer's eye to the subject's contemplative pose. To learn more about the artist's technique, explore the art of cross-hatching.

The story of this work

Overview

A chalk drawing by William Dyce depicts a life study of a female figure.

Read the full account in the museum source.

About the artist

Portrait of William Dyce
Artist

William Dyce

William Dyce (; 19 September 1806 in Aberdeen – 14 February 1864) was a Scottish painter, who played a part in the formation of public art education in the United Kingdom, and the South Kensington Schools system.

See the richer artist page

More by William Dyce

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