Artwork
Bust of a Woman

Bust of a Woman is an ink print by the Baroque artist Johann Heinrich Schönfeld. It dates from 1626 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
Bust of a Woman is a 1626 etching on laid paper by Johann Heinrich Schönfeld, currently part of the National Gallery of Art's collection in Washington.
Subject & Meaning
The etching depicts a woman's head, slightly averted, with her hair pulled back and covered by a hat. The subject's expression and intent are subtly conveyed through loose, expressive lines and textured hatching.
Technique & Style
Schönfeld employed etching techniques to create depth and shadows, with ink residing in carved lines. The loose hatching on the woman's face and hat adds a tactile quality, while the aged paper's imperfections (spots, brown stains) contribute to the work's textured appearance.
History & Provenance
Created in 1626, the etching is now housed at the National Gallery of Art in Washington, though its ownership history prior to acquisition is not detailed here.
Context
The work reflects common 17th-century printmaking practices, where etching was a prevalent method for achieving detailed, shaded images. The loose style may also hint at the artist's draftsmanship approach.
Artist & collection
Artist
Johann Heinrich Schönfeld (1609–1684) was an artist, born in Biberach an der Riß.



















