Artwork

Study of Delphic Sibyl; Head of a Man

Study of Delphic Sibyl; Head of a Man, by Alphonse Legros, silver, 1874
Study of Delphic Sibyl; Head of a Man, by Alphonse Legros, silver, 1874

Study of Delphic Sibyl; Head of a Man is a silver 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 left in silverpoint: A. Legros (underlined)

About this work

Overview

Study of Delphic Sibyl; Head of a Man is a 1874 drawing by Alphonse Legros, a French-born artist who later became a British citizen. It is executed in silverpoint on prepared paper.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts two figures: a woman with a headscarf at the top, and a bearded man below. The woman's face and the man's head are rendered in detail, while their bodies are more sketchily drawn. The woman may be a study for a Sibyl, a figure from classical mythology.

Technique & Style

The drawing showcases the fine, precise lines characteristic of silverpoint technique. Legros's use of this medium allows for a high level of detail, particularly in the faces of the two figures.

History & Provenance

Alphonse Legros was a versatile artist who worked in various media, including painting, etching, sculpture, and medallic art. He played a significant role in reviving etching in Britain and was also an educator.

study of a head
study of a head, Frederick Christian Lewis

Artist & collection

Portrait of Alphonse Legros

Artist

Alphonse Legros

Alphonse Legros (French pronunciation:; 8 May 1837 – 8 December 1911) was a French, later British, painter, etcher, sculptor, and medallist.

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

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Frequently asked questions

Who painted Study of Delphic Sibyl; Head of a Man?

Study of Delphic Sibyl; Head of a Man was painted by Alphonse Legros in 1874.

Where can I see Study of Delphic Sibyl; Head of a Man?

Study of Delphic Sibyl; Head of a Man is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Study of Delphic Sibyl; Head of a Man?

Study of Delphic Sibyl; Head of a Man is associated with Romanticism.

Can I buy a print of Study of Delphic Sibyl; Head of a Man?

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