Artwork

Head of a Turbaned Man

Head of a Turbaned Man, by Jean-Baptiste Le Prince, ink, 1768
Head of a Turbaned Man, by Jean-Baptiste Le Prince, ink, 1768

Head of a Turbaned Man is an ink print by the Romanticist artist Jean-Baptiste Le Prince. It dates from 1768 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

Inscription
Inscribed:lower center in plate: Ire. SUITTE de coeffures / dessinés d'après nature; lower left in image: LE Prince / 1768; by later hand, lower right verso in graphite: cf 16176

About this work

Overview

Head of a Turbaned Man is an etching and aquatint print created in 1768 by French artist Jean-Baptiste Le Prince. The work is currently part of the collection at the National Gallery of Art in Washington.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts a turbaned man with a weathered face, characterized by deep wrinkles, a prominent beard, and piercing eyes. The subject’s expression and the artist’s rendering convey a sense of intensity and age.

Technique & Style

The piece showcases a combination of etching and aquatint techniques, resulting in a contrast between sharp, defined lines and softer, more nuanced shading. The overall effect is akin to a rapid sketch, with loose, expressive lines dominating the composition.

History & Provenance

Created in 1768, the print is now housed at the National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C., as part of its permanent collection. The paper’s visible aging and texture reflect its nearly 250-year history.

Profile Head of a Man in a Turban
Profile Head of a Man in a Turban, Vivant Denon

Artist & collection

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.

Reviews

Frequently asked questions

Who painted Head of a Turbaned Man?

Head of a Turbaned Man was painted by Jean-Baptiste Le Prince in 1768.

Where can I see Head of a Turbaned Man?

Head of a Turbaned Man is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Head of a Turbaned Man?

Head of a Turbaned Man is associated with Romanticism.

Can I buy a print of Head of a Turbaned Man?

Museum-quality prints of Head of a Turbaned Man are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.