Three Studies of a Young Woman 1834

"Three Studies of a Young Woman" is a pencil sketch on pink paper by Theodore Rousseau, created in 1834. The artist's quick, gestural lines depict three different views of the young woman's head and shoulders. Rousseau's use of simple, yet expressive, lines captures the essence of his subject, highlighting the subtle variations in her pose and expression. This study, a testament to Rousseau's early artistic talent, showcases his ability to convey human form with economy and grace. The drawing is a significant example of Rousseau's early work and his focus on naturalism, which would later be seen in his landscapes. The Minneapolis Institute of Art houses this intimate portrait of a young woman, demonstrating the artist's skill in capturing fleeting moments with precision.