Study of Heads [recto]

French 17th Century

Associated Names
The image shows various sketch-like depictions of faces and figures. There are four main sketches: two male faces in partial profile at the top and bottom, a smaller red-toned figure above them, and another male face at the bottom looking down with closed eyes. The top left male face appears open-mouthed with flowing hair and a beard, while the top right face has a furrowed brow and a prominent nose. The smaller red-toned figure in the center is depicted with a raised arm. The drawings are set against a blue background and employ various line techniques for texture and depth.

Media Options

This object’s media is free and in the public domain. Read our full Open Access policy for images.

Artwork overview

Associated Artworks

The image depicts a sketch of two figures with only the upper halves of their bodies visible. The figure on the left is upright with a slight tilt, looking down towards the other figure who is leaning back with their head elevated and gazing upwards. The facial features of the left figure are softly sketched with minimal detail, while the right figure's face is shaded with indistinct features. The hair of both figures is flowing, with the left figure having somewhat untamed hair and the right figure's hair cascading around their head. The clothing is suggested with soft, drapery-like lines. The background is textured with swirling shades, creating an abstract and ethereal ambiance with no defined objects.

Two Reclining Figures [verso]

French 17th Century

1600


Artwork history & notes

Provenance

G. M. Norman, Sydenham, England; (P. & D. Colnaghi & Co., Ltd., London), June 1966; William B. O'Neal [1907-1994], Charlottesville, VA, January 1967; gift to NGA, 1991.

Associated Names

Exhibition History

1966

  • P. & D. Colnaghi and Co., Ltd., London, December 1966.

Bibliography

1993

  • National Gallery of Art. Drawings from the O'Neal Collection. Exh. cat. Washington, 1993, checklist p. 96 (recto reproduced).

Inscriptions

by later hand, lower left in brown ink: Lanfranque

Wikidata ID

Q64570771

You may be interested in

Loading Results