Woman's Profile 

Théophile Alexandre Steinlen sketched "Woman's Profile" in brown ink, though the exact date is unknown. This drawing encapsulates the artistic milieu of late 19th and early 20th-century France, a period marked by significant social change and artistic innovation. Steinlen, known for his work in Parisian Montmartre, often depicted the lives of ordinary people, particularly the working class. His social realism was a commentary on the societal structures of his time. The simple lines and delicate shading here reflect an intimate and informal portrayal, indicative of a shift away from academic portraiture toward more democratic representation. Understanding the institutional context of art during this era—the rise of independent galleries, the influence of socialist ideologies, and the changing role of women in society—enriches our appreciation of this sketch. To delve deeper, one might explore period newspapers, social surveys, and exhibition catalogs to reveal the complex interplay between art and society. Ultimately, this artwork's meaning lies in its historical and cultural setting.