Small Oriental Head

c. 1645/1647

Giovanni Benedetto Castiglione

Associated Names
Giovanni Benedetto Castiglione

Artist, Italian, 1609 - 1664

The image depicts the upper part of a person's body, specifically the head and shoulders. The individual is in profile, facing to the right. The facial features are distinct and sharp, with a prominent nose and closed lips. The hair is styled in a large, elaborate way, possibly a turban or headscarf, adorned with decorative feathers or ornamental elements on top. The person wears a garment with a gentle fold around the neck and shoulders. There are no visible jewelry or objects held by the person. The background is plain, with minimal elements, and the artist’s inscription "CASTIGLIONE GENOVESE" is near the head.

Media Options

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Artwork overview

  • Medium

    etching on laid paper (a later impression)

  • Credit Line

    Ailsa Mellon Bruce Fund

  • Dimensions

    plate: 10.8 x 8.1 cm (4 1/4 x 3 3/16 in.)
    sheet: 12.1 x 9.2 cm (4 3/4 x 3 5/8 in.)

  • Accession Number

    1991.135.1

  • Catalogue Raisonné

    Bartsch, no. 33, State only

Artwork history & notes

Bibliography

1802

  • Bartsch, Adam. Le peintre graveur. 21 vols. Vienna, 1802-1821: Adam. Le peintre graveur. 21 vols. Vienna: J.V. Degen, 1802-1821.

1959

  • Basan, p.116.

1982

  • Bellini 24.

Inscriptions

upper right in plate: GBC / CASTILIONE / GENOVESE -; by later hand, lower left verso in graphite: B. 33; by later hand, lower center verso in graphite: (?) 9811

Wikidata ID

Q74894049

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