Who painted Head of a Woman?

Head of a Woman was painted by William Mulready in 1834.

Where can I see Head of a Woman?

Head of a Woman is held by Victoria and Albert Museum.

Artwork

Head of a Woman

Head of a Woman is an unspecified painting by William Mulready. It dates from 1834 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

Overview

Head of a Woman is a painting by William Mulready, dated to around 1834, and is part of the Victoria and Albert Museum's collection.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts a woman lost in thought, her calm and introspective expression suggesting quiet contemplation. Her gaze is directed slightly to the right, as if focused on a distant point.

Technique & Style

Mulready's use of chiaroscuro creates a sense of depth, drawing attention to the subject's face. The contrast between light and dark areas adds dimensionality to the work.

Context

The warm, golden background complements the subject's dark hair, which is pulled back to frame her face, emphasizing her features.

Artist & collection

Artist

William Mulready

William Mulready was an Irish genre painter living in London. He is best known for his romanticising depictions of rural scenes, and for creating Mulready stationery letter sheets, issued at the same time as the Penny Black postage stamp.