Study for portrait of unknown woman 

This pastel drawing by Maurice Quentin de La Tour depicts the head and shoulders of an unknown woman. The artist, known for his portraits, captures the subject's features with meticulous detail. The woman's gaze is directed slightly downward, suggesting a contemplative or introspective mood. The use of soft pastels creates a sense of warmth and intimacy, emphasizing the gentle curve of her face and the delicate folds of her clothing. The artwork, though unfinished, showcases de La Tour's mastery of portraiture and his ability to evoke a sense of realism and emotional depth through his use of subtle light and shadow.