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Three Views of the Head of a Native (probably a Sakalava), Madagascar, by James Ward, oil, 1815

Three Views of the Head of a Native (probably a Sakalava), Madagascar

James Ward

1815

oil

canvas

From the collection of British Museum

Dominant colour

Overview

Three Views of the Head of a Native (probably a Sakalava), Madagascar is a 1815 oil by James Ward, a British Romanticism work, held at British Museum.

Who painted this?
James Ward
When & what style?
1815 · British Romanticism
Where can I see it?
British Museum

About this work

This painting shows three views of a man's head, likely a Sakalava from Madagascar. The man has dark skin and curly hair. He is wearing a white shirt with a collar. The background of the painting is a light brown color. The man's face is shown from different angles, with his head turned to the left, right, and straight ahead. His facial expression is neutral, with a slight furrowed brow. The painting is done in oil paint and features a realistic style. The artist has used chiaroscuro to create depth and contrast in the painting. If you're interested in learning more about this style, look up chiaroscuro.

About the artist

More by James Ward

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