Who painted Head of a Young Man (Study for L'Oiseau de passage)?

Head of a Young Man (Study for L'Oiseau de passage) was painted by Paul Gavarni in 1853.

Where can I see Head of a Young Man (Study for L'Oiseau de passage)?

Head of a Young Man (Study for L'Oiseau de passage) is held by Cleveland Museum of Art.

What movement is Head of a Young Man (Study for L'Oiseau de passage)?

Head of a Young Man (Study for L'Oiseau de passage) is associated with Impressionism.

Artwork

Head of a Young Man (Study for L'Oiseau de passage)

Paul Gavarni , 1853

Head of a Young Man (Study for L'Oiseau de passage) is a drawing by the Impressionist artist Paul Gavarni. It dates from 1853 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

This drawing, titled Head of a Young Man, served as a preparatory study for Paul Gavarni's lithograph L'Oiseau de passage, part of a series depicting Parisian courtesans published in the newspaper Paris.

Subject & Meaning

The subject, a calm-faced young man gazing directly at the viewer, is identified as 'L'Oiseau de passage' (The Bird of Passage), a term referring to a casual lover of a courtesan, supplementing her primary protector's support.

Technique & Style

The drawing's specific techniques and stylistic elements are not detailed here, though it exemplifies Gavarni's ability to capture the essence of 19th-century life, as noted by the Goncourt brothers.

History & Provenance

Once part of the notable Goncourt brothers' collection of Gavarni's work, this drawing was highlighted in their Journal des Goncourt as 'the study of this cruel redhead', reflecting their admiration for the artist's insight into contemporary life.

Context

Created for a lithograph series in Paris, the drawing is now housed at The Cleveland Museum of Art, where more information on the artist is available.