Artwork
Untitled
Untitled is a drawing by the Impressionist artist Edward Coley, Sir Burne-Jones. It dates from 1877 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum. Created in 1877, this charcoal drawing by Sir Edward Coley Burne‑Jones presents a study of a woman's head and shoulders.
About this work
Overview
Created in 1877, this charcoal drawing by Sir Edward Coley Burne‑Jones presents a study of a woman's head and shoulders. Executed on plain white paper, the work captures the sitter in a three‑quarter view, her long hair flowing and her gaze directed to the right.
Subject & Meaning
The composition focuses on a single female figure, rendered with careful attention to facial features and the texture of her hair. While no narrative context is provided, the intimate portrait study suggests an interest in capturing the individual character and presence of the sitter.
Technique & Style
Burne‑Jones employed charcoal to achieve a range of tonal values, layering marks to model form and suggest depth. The drawing demonstrates a realistic approach, with fine gradations that define the contours of the face and the sheen of the hair, while the plain background emphasizes the figure.
History & Provenance
The piece dates from the late Victorian period, a time when Burne‑Jones was active as a leading figure of the Pre‑Raphaelites. As a preparatory study, it likely served as a reference for later painted works, though specific details of its ownership history are not recorded in the available sources.
Artist & collection
