The artwork, titled “Head of a Boy,” was created by Lucian Freud in 1953. This portrait, belonging to the Expressionism art movement, presents an intimate and detailed depiction of a young boy’s face. As a piece of the portrait genre, it captures the raw and emotive essence characteristic of Freud’s artistry.
The artwork exhibits the face of the boy, rendered with soft and muted tones. The close-up and central placement of the subject’s face draws the viewer’s attention to the subtle nuances in the boy’s expression. The artist’s brushstrokes are delicate yet intentional, contributing to the lifelike quality of the skin and features. The boy’s gaze is direct, with eyes that appear contemplative and lips that rest in a natural, slightly pursed position. The background of the portrait is kept minimalistic, ensuring that the focus remains solely on the subject’s face. The overall composition and technique highlight Lucian Freud’s mastery in capturing the complexity of human expressions and emotions.