Head of a Woman
1890
From the collection of Cleveland Museum of Art
1890
From the collection of Cleveland Museum of Art
This is a black-and-white drawing of a woman’s face and shoulders. She’s wearing a dark collar that sits high around her neck, and her hair is pulled back under a hat. The background is soft and blurry, keeping all focus on her. The artist used smooth shading to show light and shadow on her skin and clothes. The style looks loose but controlled, like the artist was more interested in mood than tiny details. Next, check out Realism to see how artists like this one focused on everyday life and honest portrayals.
