Who painted Small Grotesque Head?

Small Grotesque Head was painted by Jusepe de Ribera in 1622.

Where can I see Small Grotesque Head?

Small Grotesque Head is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Small Grotesque Head?

Small Grotesque Head is associated with Baroque.

Can I buy a print of Small Grotesque Head?

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

Artwork

Small Grotesque Head

Jusepe de Ribera , 1622

Small Grotesque Head is an ink print by the Baroque artist Jusepe de Ribera. It dates from 1622 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

Inscription: Inscribed:lower right in plate: SHP (in monogram) ABR (in monogram) / 1622; by later hand, lower center verso in graphite: B. 8, F. Van Wyngarede (not deciphered) / (not deciphered) 1st st. very fine 7167
Markings: Marked:none

About this work

Overview

Small Grotesque Head is an etching on laid paper created by Jusepe de Ribera in 1622. It exemplifies the artist's work in printmaking during his time in Naples.

Subject & Meaning

The etching depicts a close-up profile of a wrinkled face wearing a feathered hat, with the subject's hand resting on their shoulder. The detailed rendering of the face's texture and expression suggests a focus on capturing raw, human character.

Technique & Style

Ribera employed sharp lines to convey texture, creating a three-dimensional effect. This stylistic choice was characteristic of etchings from the period, showcasing the artist's skill with the medium.

Context

As a Spanish artist working in Naples, Ribera was part of a broader artistic community that influenced his work. His expressive and unidealized depictions of figures contributed to the development of Spanish Baroque art.