Artwork

Head Study of a Preacher

Head Study of a Preacher, by Francis Le Piper, ink, 1670
Head Study of a Preacher, by Francis Le Piper, ink, 1670

Head Study of a Preacher is an ink drawing by the Baroque artist Francis Le Piper. It dates from 1670 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Head Study of a Preacher is a drawing created by Francis Le Piper around 1670, executed in pen and brown ink with gray wash on laid paper. It is currently held at the National Gallery of Art, Washington.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts a man, likely a preacher, with a serious expression, wearing a dark robe and cap. The level of detail in his face suggests a focus on capturing his character.

Technique & Style

The artist's use of shading and texture creates a sense of depth, drawing attention to the subject's face. The combination of pen, brown ink, and gray wash allows for a range of tonal values and expressive detail.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Francis Le Piper

Artist

Francis Le Piper

Francis Lepipre or Le Piper was an English artist of Flemish ancestry.

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