Head of a Woman 1650 - 1700

This drawing, "Head of a Woman," of undetermined date, was made anonymously with black chalk on paper. The image presents the subject with closed eyes and a serene expression. Let's consider the social and institutional context of artistic training. In European academies from the 17th century onward, drawing from life, particularly the human figure, was a cornerstone of artistic education. Students would copy classical sculptures and then progress to live models, often focusing on individual body parts like this head, to master anatomy and form. The anonymity of this work invites speculation. Was it a student exercise, never intended for public display? Or did the artist choose to remain unknown, perhaps challenging the growing cult of artistic personality? Examining academic curricula and student drawings from different periods might shed light on its purpose and origins. Ultimately, understanding this drawing requires us to consider the role of art academies, the status of the artist, and the social conventions that shaped artistic production in its time.