Artwork
Bust of a woman

Bust of a woman is a drawing by the Baroque artist Benjamin West. It dates from 1738 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.
About this work
Overview
Bust of a Woman is a drawing by Benjamin West, dated to 1738, and is part of the Victoria and Albert Museum's collection.
Subject & Meaning
The drawing depicts a woman from the shoulders up, gazing directly at the viewer with a contemplative expression. Her features are delicately rendered, with loose curls framing her face, conveying a sense of quiet introspection.
Technique & Style
The artist employed a range of lines and shading to achieve depth and texture, using techniques that create a detailed and nuanced portrait. The subject's hair and facial features are characterized by delicate detail and soft contours.
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Artist & collection
Artist
Benjamin West (October 10, 1738 – March 11, 1820) was an American-born British painter who specialised in history painting, creating such works as The Death of Nelson, The Death of General Wolfe, the Treaty of Paris,…


















