Artwork
Study of a Head
Study of a Head is a graphite 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
Study of a Head is a graphite drawing on laid paper created by Alphonse Legros in 1874. The work exemplifies Legros's skill as a draughtsman and his ability to capture the subtleties of his subject.
Subject & Meaning
The drawing depicts a man's head, turned to the right, with short, curly hair and a long beard. The focus on the subject's facial expression suggests an emphasis on capturing his character or emotional state.
Technique & Style
Executed in a restrained, linear style, the drawing employs varying line thicknesses to convey texture and depth. The artist's use of graphite on laid paper allows for a high level of detail, particularly in the rendering of the subject's hair and beard.
Context
Legros, a French-born artist who settled in Britain, was associated with the etching revival in Britain. His work, including Study of a Head, reflects his engagement with portraiture and figure studies, characteristic of his broader artistic practice.
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Artist & collection
Artist
Alphonse Legros (French pronunciation: ; 8 May 1837 – 8 December 1911) was a French, later British, painter, etcher, sculptor, and medallist.
