Who painted Study of a Head?

Study of a Head was painted by Alphonse Legros in 1874.

Where can I see Study of a Head?

Study of a Head is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Study of a Head?

Study of a Head is associated with Romanticism.

Can I buy a print of Study of a Head?

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

Artwork

Study of a Head

Alphonse Legros , 1874

Study of a Head is a graphite drawing by the Romanticist artist Alphonse Legros. It dates from 1874 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

Inscription: Inscribed:lower right in graphite: A. Legros (underlined); in laterhand, upper left verso in graphite: No 6.

About this work

Overview

Study of a Head is a graphite drawing on laid paper created by Alphonse Legros in 1874. The work exemplifies Legros's skill as a draughtsman and his ability to capture the subtleties of his subject.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts a man's head, turned to the right, with short, curly hair and a long beard. The focus on the subject's facial expression suggests an emphasis on capturing his character or emotional state.

Technique & Style

Executed in a restrained, linear style, the drawing employs varying line thicknesses to convey texture and depth. The artist's use of graphite on laid paper allows for a high level of detail, particularly in the rendering of the subject's hair and beard.

Context

Legros, a French-born artist who settled in Britain, was associated with the etching revival in Britain. His work, including Study of a Head, reflects his engagement with portraiture and figure studies, characteristic of his broader artistic practice.