Artwork

Head of an Old Woman (Tête de vielle dame)

Head of an Old Woman (Tête de vielle dame), by Nicolas Toussaint Charlet, ink, 1828
Head of an Old Woman (Tête de vielle dame), by Nicolas Toussaint Charlet, ink, 1828

Head of an Old Woman (Tête de vielle dame) is an ink print by the Romanticist artist Nicolas Toussaint Charlet. It dates from 1828 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Head of an Old Woman is a 1828 lithograph on chine appliqué by Nicolas-Toussaint Charlet, a French artist known for his work in painting and printmaking.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts an elderly woman's face, wrapped in a shawl, with a serious or tired expression. The subject diverges from Charlet's typical focus on military themes, instead showcasing his ability to capture detailed, expressive figures.

Technique & Style

The image was created using lithography, a process involving drawing directly on a smooth stone. The resulting print features rough, scratchy lines, giving it a sketchy appearance. The black-and-white work conveys a sense of immediacy and informality.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Nicolas Toussaint Charlet

Artist

Nicolas Toussaint Charlet

Nicolas-Toussaint Charlet was a French painter and printmaker, more especially of military subjects.

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