Artwork
Study of a Man's Head [recto]
![Study of a Man's Head [recto], by Alphonse Legros, chalk, 1874](https://artifactworldgallery.com/img/alphonse-legros--study-of-a-man-s-head-recto--745204b66df421ed-w1024.webp)
Study of a Man's Head [recto] is a chalk 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 Man's Head is a red chalk drawing created by Alphonse Legros in 1874. It features a profile view of a male head, characterized by expressive, loose lines.
Subject & Meaning
The subject is a man's head in profile, with emphasis on the contours of hair, nose, and jaw. The drawing likely served as a preparatory study for a larger work, practicing facial capture.
Technique & Style
Executed in quick, rough red chalk strokes on light paper, the drawing showcases Legros's expressive line work. The uneven, unrefined lines suggest a rapid execution, prioritizing form over refinement.
History & Provenance
Created in 1874 by Alphonse Legros, a French artist based in Britain since 1863, where he contributed significantly to the revival of etching.
Artist & collection
Artist
Alphonse Legros (French pronunciation: ; 8 May 1837 – 8 December 1911) was a French, later British, painter, etcher, sculptor, and medallist.
