Head of Neptune c. 18th century

"Head of Neptune" is a drawing by James Barry, a prominent Irish artist from the late 18th century. The work, currently housed at The Art Institute of Chicago, depicts the Roman god of the sea with a long beard and flowing hair, surrounded by aquatic plants and a cornucopia. The image is rendered in detailed pen and ink, capturing the texture of Neptune’s flowing hair and beard as well as the intricate details of the surrounding foliage, demonstrating Barry's talent for capturing the nuances of form and texture.