Study of a Female Head

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Drawing details

Title: Study of a Female Head
Date: 1891-96
Media: Black and white chalk on grey brown paper
Dimensions: 21.8 x 21.9 cm
Location: Leighton House Museum
Picture credit: Leighton House Museum, The Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea
Reference number: LHO/D/0897
Inscriptions: Inscribed on reverse, centre "304" in black biro, crossed out in black biro, scribbled out in pencil.

Interpretation

Although the position of the head is different, this may be a study for the head of Medusa in the painting 'Perseus on Pegasus Hastening to the Rescue of Andromeda' (c.1895-96, Museum and Art Gallery, Leicester) as the troubled expression is similar. The head appears to be falling back as if hanging over the edge of a bed.

Description

Study of a female head tilted to the right with chin raised. The eyebrows frown and the eyes are closed. The lips appear to be slightly parted. The neck, part of the left shoulder and the hair are also indicated. 

Provenance

Collection of Leighton House Museum