Who painted Head of a Child?

Head of a Child was painted by British 18th Century in 1730.

Where can I see Head of a Child?

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

What movement is Head of a Child?

Head of a Child is associated with Baroque.

Artwork

Head of a Child

British 18th Century , 1730

Head of a Child is a chalk drawing by the Baroque artist British 18th Century. It dates from 1730 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

The work is a portrait drawing titled Head of a Child, executed with black and red chalks and enhanced with white chalk on a brown paper support. The composition presents a single, intimate view of a child's head, emphasizing delicate facial features and a quiet expression.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing captures the subtlety of youth, focusing on the gentle contours of the child's face. The restrained palette and soft modeling convey a sense of tenderness and introspection, inviting contemplation of the child's inner world.

Technique & Style

The artist employed a limited chalk palette—black, red, and white—applied to brown paper, creating a chiaroscuro effect that models form through light and shadow. The white chalk highlights illuminate the surface, while the red adds warmth to the skin tones.

History & Provenance

The piece is catalogued as a drawing, though specific details about its creation date, artist, or ownership history are not provided in the source material.