Study of a Head in Profile [verso]

John Varley

Associated Names
John Varley

Artist, British, 1778 - 1842

The image displays curving lines and arcs in an abstract composition. In the upper left, lines curve inward. To the right, a spiral formation is visible. Below the spiral, linear shapes suggest a horizon or the ribbing of a ship's hull. In the bottom center, a signature appears in brown script.

Media Options

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Artwork overview

  • Medium

    gray wash and graphite on laid paper

  • Credit Line

    Gift of William B. O'Neal

  • Dimensions

    overall: 9.1 × 11.6 cm (3 9/16 × 4 9/16 in.)

  • Accession Number

    1995.52.184.b

Associated Artworks

The image shows a landscape sketch from an aerial perspective. In the lower half, there are dense dark brushstrokes resembling foliage. The horizon is not clearly defined, with a focus on the texture and forms within the brushwork. The technique features loose strokes with an ink wash effect. The color palette is monochromatic with shades of gray and black. In the upper right corner, there are faint penciled sketches of trees or shrubs.

A Stand of Trees [recto]

John Varley

1778

Artwork history & notes

Provenance

(Thos. Agnew & Sons Ltd., London); purchased by William B. O'Neal, Charlottesville, VA, 1967-1994; gift to NGA, 1995.

Associated Names

Wikidata ID

Q64584415

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