Artwork

Head of a Girl

Head of a Girl, by Hans Meyer, 1870
Head of a Girl, by Hans Meyer, 1870

Head of a Girl is a print by the Impressionist artist Hans Meyer. It dates from 1870 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

Head of a Girl is a print created by Hans Meyer in 1870, currently part of The Cleveland Museum of Art's collection.

Subject & Meaning

The work depicts a young woman's face and shoulders, her hair pulled back and dressed in a high-necked outfit with a lace collar, conveying a sense of quiet, everyday portraiture.

Technique & Style

Characterized by soft lines and gentle shading, particularly on the subject's skin and hair, the print exemplifies the attention to detail and realistic rendering typical of late 19th-century Realist aesthetics.

History & Provenance

Created in 1870 by Hans Meyer, the print's history prior to its acquisition by The Cleveland Museum of Art is not detailed here.

Context

The piece aligns with the broader artistic movement of Realism, which emphasized depicting ordinary life with precision and subtlety, as evident in the meticulous portrayal of textures and light effects.

Legacy

As a representative of late 19th-century Realist printmaking, it contributes to the understanding and appreciation of this artistic period, though its specific impact or notable exhibitions are not highlighted.

Artist & collection

Artist

Hans Meyer

Hans Meyer (1846–1919) was a German artist.

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