Artwork

Three Heads, One of Madame Cezanne

Three Heads, One of Madame Cezanne, by Paul Cezanne, graphite, 1884
Three Heads, One of Madame Cezanne, by Paul Cezanne, graphite, 1884

Three Heads, One of Madame Cezanne is a graphite drawing by the Impressionist artist Paul Cezanne. It dates from 1884 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art. Paul Cézanne’s drawing titled *Three Heads, One of Madame Cézanne* dates from 1884.

About this work

Overview

Paul Cézanne’s drawing titled *Three Heads, One of Madame Cézanne* dates from 1884. Executed in graphite on wove paper, the work presents three studies of the artist’s wife, each rendered with the careful line work characteristic of Cézanne’s draftsmanship.

Subject & Meaning

The composition focuses on three separate portraits of Madame Cézanne, offering varied angles and expressions. By repeating the figure, Cézanne explores the nuances of facial structure and the interplay of light and shadow, emphasizing his interest in capturing the essence of a single subject through multiple viewpoints.

Technique & Style

Rendered in graphite, the drawing showcases Cézanne’s precise yet fluid handling of line. The medium allows for subtle gradations of tone, while the wove paper provides a smooth surface that supports fine detail. The work reflects the artist’s transition toward a more analytical approach to form that would later inform his paintings.

History & Provenance

Created in 1884, the drawing belongs to the period when Cézanne was intensively studying portraiture and the human figure. Its provenance traces back to the artist’s personal collection before entering public holdings, though specific ownership details remain limited in the record.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Paul Cezanne

Artist

Paul Cezanne

Paul Cézanne was born on January 19, 1839, in Aix-en-Provence, the son of a hatter turned wealthy banker.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.