Self-Portrait, 10th plate
1905
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
1905
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
This sketch shows a side view of a person’s head and long hair, drawn in loose, flowing lines. The artist used only red tones on a light background, giving it a soft, sketchy feel. The strokes are quick and uneven, like a quick study rather than a finished drawing. The signature in the corner hints this is by Alphonse Legros, a French artist known for his prints. This piece is a self-portrait, made late in his career when he was already famous. If you like this style, look up lithography to see how artists create prints like this one.