Female – Study of a Girl’s Head 1860

Sir John Everett Millais made this drawing, 'Female – Study of a Girl’s Head', with graphite on paper. The delicate play of light and shadow across the subject's face immediately captivates. Millais masterfully uses line and shading to create a sense of volume and depth. Notice how the density of the graphite defines the contours of her face, particularly around the eyes and cheekbones, giving her form a striking presence. The soft, diffused light evokes a pensive mood, drawing us into the subject’s inner world. The use of such precise and controlled lines creates a delicate balance between realism and idealization. This speaks to a broader artistic concern during the time with the Pre-Raphaelites, emphasizing detailed observation and symbolic representation. The choice of such a simple medium focuses our attention on the underlying structure and form, highlighting the timeless quality of the human figure.