Artwork

Young Girl Reading

Young Girl Reading, by Jacques André Portail, chalk, 1740
Young Girl Reading, by Jacques André Portail, chalk, 1740

Young Girl Reading is a chalk drawing by the Baroque artist Jacques André Portail. It dates from 1740 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Young Girl Reading is a drawing by Jacques André Portail, executed in 1740 using red and black chalk on buff laid paper. It is part of the collection at the National Gallery of Art in Washington.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts a serene young girl immersed in reading, her calm face reflecting her focus. The scene captures a quiet, everyday moment, conveying a sense of intimacy.

Technique & Style

Portail utilized a restrained palette of red and black chalk to create the work, emphasizing simplicity and contributing to the intimate atmosphere of the composition.

History & Provenance

Created in 1740, the drawing is now held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art, Washington, though specific provenance details prior to its acquisition are not provided here.

Artist & collection

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