Head of an Angel 1828 - 1838

Alphonse-Henri Périn created this drawing of an angel's head with graphite on paper. The soft, muted tones of the graphite lend the piece a serene and contemplative quality. The angel's face, framed by delicate strands of hair, is rendered with precise lines that capture a sense of ethereal beauty. Périn’s masterful use of line and shading is evident in the subtle contours of the face and the flowing lines of the hair. The composition is symmetrical and balanced, which enhances the feeling of harmony and order. This approach reflects the broader artistic and philosophical concerns of his time, which were focused on ideal forms. The work evokes a sense of transcendent beauty, inviting us to consider how art can transform simple materials into profound expressions of the human spirit.