Ideal head of a woman 1525

Michelangelo created this study, Ideal Head of a Woman, in the 16th century using a black pencil. During the High Renaissance, the concept of idealized beauty was influenced by classical Greek and Roman art, focusing on symmetry and perfection. It's important to consider the power dynamics at play. The male gaze often dictated the representation of women in art, and Michelangelo, as a man, was part of this tradition. How much did his own desires and perceptions shape this image? Does the woman have agency, or is she merely a passive object of admiration? This drawing invites us to reflect on the complexities of beauty, power, and representation in art history. It's a reminder that even the most skilled artists are products of their time, influenced by the prevailing social and cultural norms.