Study of a Head 1837 - 1911

"Study of a Head" is a drawing by French artist Alphonse Legros, executed between 1837 and 1911. The piece, which resides in the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City, depicts a man in profile, his face obscured by his hand. The detailed lines of red chalk contribute to a sense of somberness and contemplation. Legros was known for his realistic depictions of everyday people and this work exemplifies his mastery of this style. The subject's hidden face and pensive pose invite viewers to consider the inner world of the sitter, showcasing the emotional power of simple gesture and form.