Who painted Two Heads?

Two Heads was painted by Paul Cezanne in 1893.

Where can I see Two Heads?

Two Heads is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Two Heads?

Two Heads is associated with Impressionism.

Artwork

Two Heads

Paul Cezanne , 1893

Two Heads is a graphite drawing by the Impressionist artist Paul Cezanne. It dates from 1893 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Paul Cézanne’s drawing titled Two Heads, executed in 1893, is a graphite study on wove paper. The work presents two distinct facial studies rendered with swift, gestural lines that convey a sense of immediacy rather than finished composition.

Subject & Meaning

The composition juxtaposes a profile view of a head wearing a low‑set cap with a slightly turned, three‑quarter view of another face. The contrast between the sharply defined jawline and the softer shading around the eyes and nose suggests an exploration of differing facial forms and light effects.

Technique & Style

Cézanne employed varied graphite strokes, ranging from light hatching to dense, dark marks, allowing tonal modulation across the paper’s warm, yellowish hue. The lines remain deliberately rough and unfinished, characteristic of the artist’s practice sketches that prioritize structural observation over polished finish.

History & Provenance

Created during the later phase of Cézanne’s career, Two Heads reflects his ongoing investigations into form and volume. The drawing has remained within private collections before entering its current institutional holding, where it is displayed as an example of his preparatory work.