Head of a Woman Looking Back Over Her Shoulder

Head of a Woman Looking Back Over Her Shoulder

Jean-Baptiste Greuze

1765

chalk

From the collection of National Gallery of Art

About this work

This sketch shows a woman’s face turned slightly away, her gaze meeting someone behind her. Her hair is pulled back, with loose curls framing her neck. The artist used quick, loose lines for her dress, leaving most of it blank. The red chalk gives a soft, warm tone to the paper, making the face stand out. The drawing feels quick—like a study rather than a finished portrait. Next, look up Baroque to see how this style shaped art with drama and movement.

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