Head of a Woman in Profile 1879 - 1880

"Head of a Woman in Profile" is an 1879-1880 monotype by Edgar Degas, currently housed at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York. Degas, known for his depictions of dancers and Parisian life, captures the essence of a woman's profile with remarkable subtlety in this monotype. The hazy, almost ghostly rendering of the face suggests the fleeting nature of the moment, characteristic of Degas's exploration of Impressionism. The use of monochrome allows for a focus on form and texture, creating a sense of depth and intimacy. The delicate lines and soft shading convey a sense of delicate beauty and transient moments. The work exemplifies Degas's mastery of monotype, a technique that allows for unique, often experimental results, lending a sense of spontaneity to the piece.