Study for the head of Apollo 1630

Diego Velázquez's "Study for the head of Apollo" (1630) is a striking example of his mastery of portraiture. This oil sketch, rendered in warm browns and golds, depicts the Greek god Apollo in profile, his face adorned with a laurel wreath. The loose brushstrokes and unfinished nature of the work highlight Velázquez's ability to capture the essence of a subject with minimal detail, showcasing the dynamic movement of the god's hair and the contemplative gaze of the classical deity. This study, likely created in preparation for a larger work, offers a glimpse into the artist's creative process, revealing the meticulous attention to detail and nuanced expression that characterizes his art.