Artwork

Face in Profile (verso)

Face in Profile (verso), by Paul-Jacques-Aimé Baudry, 1864
Face in Profile (verso), by Paul-Jacques-Aimé Baudry, 1864

Face in Profile (verso) is a drawing by the Impressionist artist Paul-Jacques-Aimé Baudry. It dates from 1864 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

This drawing, titled Face in Profile, is a work by Paul-Jacques-Aimé Baudry, created as part of his preparations for the ceiling paintings in the Grand Foyer of the Paris Opéra.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts Apollo in profile, likely from a scene where Apollo judges Marsyas in a musical contest, drawing on classical mythology.

Technique & Style

The drawing showcases Baudry's confident and clean line work, capturing the subtle play of light on the subject's cheek and the fluid fall of Apollo's hair.

Context

Baudry's work was influenced by his study of Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel frescoes and his sculpture, David, which he encountered during his Italian journey, evident in the figure's pose and body type.

Artist & collection

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