Study of a woman’s head for the painting ‘A noble lady of Venice’ c. 1865

This preparatory drawing by Frederic Leighton, dated c. 1865, is a study of a woman’s head for his painting ‘A noble lady of Venice’. Executed in graphite on paper, the drawing showcases Leighton’s masterful ability to capture the delicate features and subtle expressions of the human form. The woman’s head is depicted in profile, with her hair pulled back and her chin slightly tilted, suggesting a sense of elegance and refinement. This study demonstrates Leighton’s meticulous approach to his art, highlighting his dedication to precise anatomical detail and the creation of idealized beauty.