Study of a girl´s head John William Godward (1861-1922)

The drawing presents a close-up portrait of a young woman, rendered in a style suggestive of late nineteenth or early twentieth century academic art. The subject is depicted from approximately three-quarter view, her gaze directed downwards and slightly away from the viewer. Her head is turned to her right, revealing a profile that emphasizes the delicate curve of her nose and chin.
The artist has employed a muted palette dominated by earthy tones – browns, creams, and subtle greens – which contribute to an overall sense of quiet introspection. The hair, styled in a loose updo, appears soft and voluminous, with individual strands carefully delineated using variations in tone and texture. Light falls across the face from the left, highlighting the contours of her cheekbones and jawline while casting gentle shadows that add depth and dimension.
The woman’s attire consists of a loosely draped garment, likely silk or a similar fine fabric, which clings to her shoulders and upper chest. The folds of the material are rendered with meticulous attention to detail, demonstrating an understanding of drapery studies common in academic training. The background is a flat, teal-colored plane, devoid of any distracting elements, which serves to focus the viewer’s attention entirely on the subjects face and expression.
The subtexts within this drawing seem to revolve around themes of youthful beauty, melancholy, and perhaps a touch of vulnerability. Her downward gaze suggests contemplation or sadness, while her slightly parted lips hint at an unspoken emotion. The overall impression is one of quiet dignity and restrained sentimentality. There’s a sense that the artist aimed not merely to capture physical likeness but also to convey something about the subjects inner state – a fleeting moment of private reflection. The careful rendering of details, combined with the subdued color scheme, reinforces this feeling of intimacy and psychological depth.