Artwork
Head of a Man Facing Left
Head of a Man Facing Left is a crayon drawing by the Romanticist artist Alphonse Legros. It dates from 1874 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
Head of a Man Facing Left is a drawing created by Alphonse Legros in 1874 using black crayon. It exemplifies the artist's skill in capturing a subject with simplicity and restraint.
Subject & Meaning
The drawing depicts a man's profile, turned slightly to the left, with a focus on the texture of his hair and beard. The subject is presented in a straightforward manner, without embellishment or emotional expression.
Technique & Style
Legros employed a linear style, using quick, rough lines to convey texture and depth. The contrast between dark shadows and lighter areas, achieved with black crayon on a plain background, creates a sense of volume and dimensionality.
History & Provenance
Alphonse Legros, born in France in 1837, settled in London in 1863 and became a naturalized British citizen. He was a versatile artist and educator who contributed to the revival of etching in Britain.
Artist & collection
Artist
Alphonse Legros (French pronunciation: ; 8 May 1837 – 8 December 1911) was a French, later British, painter, etcher, sculptor, and medallist.
