Head of a Woman
1840
From the collection of Victoria and Albert Museum
1840
From the collection of Victoria and Albert Museum
This sketch shows a woman’s face turned slightly to the side, her hair pulled back. The lines are soft and light, almost like a quick study. The background is plain, letting the face stand out. The artist used faint strokes to build up the shape, giving it a gentle look. It’s not a finished portrait—more like a practice drawing. Next, check out cross-hatching to see how artists build up tones with lines.
