Artwork
Study of Delphic Sibyl; Head of a Man
Study of Delphic Sibyl; Head of a Man is a silver 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 Delphic Sibyl; Head of a Man is a 1874 drawing by Alphonse Legros, a French-born artist who later became a British citizen. It is executed in silverpoint on prepared paper.
Subject & Meaning
The drawing depicts two figures: a woman with a headscarf at the top, and a bearded man below. The woman's face and the man's head are rendered in detail, while their bodies are more sketchily drawn. The woman may be a study for a Sibyl, a figure from classical mythology.
Technique & Style
The drawing showcases the fine, precise lines characteristic of silverpoint technique. Legros's use of this medium allows for a high level of detail, particularly in the faces of the two figures.
History & Provenance
Alphonse Legros was a versatile artist who worked in various media, including painting, etching, sculpture, and medallic art. He played a significant role in reviving etching in Britain and was also an educator.
Artist & collection
Artist
Alphonse Legros (French pronunciation: ; 8 May 1837 – 8 December 1911) was a French, later British, painter, etcher, sculptor, and medallist.
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