Artwork

Head of a Girl

Head of a Girl, by Robert Loftin Newman, oil, 1898
Head of a Girl, by Robert Loftin Newman, oil, 1898

Head of a Girl is an oil painting by the Post-Impressionist artist Robert Loftin Newman. It dates from 1898 and is held in the collection of the Brooklyn Museum.

About this work

Overview

Head of a Girl is an 1898 oil painting on canvas by American artist Robert Loftin Newman, characterized by its soft, dreamy portrayal of a young girl.

Subject & Meaning

The subject is a young girl with dark hair pulled back, her face turned left and features subtly blurred, conveying a sense of quiet contemplation.

Technique & Style

Newman employed a muted color palette and avoided sharp definitions, aligning with Post-Impressionist tendencies and his association with the moody style of Albert Pinkham Ryder.

History & Provenance

Created in 1898, the painting is part of the Brooklyn Museum's collection, reflecting Newman's contribution to American Post-Impressionism.

Context

This work situates Newman within the broader Post-Impressionist movement, notable for its departure from realistic representations in favor of emotional depth and suggestive forms.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Robert Loftin Newman

Artist

Robert Loftin Newman

Robert Loftin Newman (November 10, 1827 – March 31, 1912) was an American painter and stained-glass designer.

Brooklyn Museum

Museum

Brooklyn Museum

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