Head of a man in shadow turned slightly to the left, from the series of 'Large Oriental Heads' 1640 - 1650

This etching, created by Giovanni Benedetto Castiglione, known as "Il Grechetto," is a powerful example of his "Large Oriental Heads" series. Executed between 1640 and 1650, the piece showcases Castiglione's masterful use of light and shadow to depict a man's head partially obscured by a feathery turban. The dramatic contrast between the light background and the dark figure creates a sense of mystery, inviting the viewer to contemplate the subject's thoughts and identity. This work, now in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, exemplifies Castiglione's mastery of etching and his interest in the exotic and the unknown.