“Head of a Girl (also known as The Priestess)” is an oil on canvas painting created by John William Godward in 1896. This portrait falls under the Neoclassicism art movement and is currently part of a private collection.
The artwork depicts a young woman with a serene expression, adorned with a golden wreath on her dark hair, which adds a sense of classical elegance and mystique. Her long, wavy hair cascades softly, contrasting with her delicately featured face. The subject’s eyes, slightly averted, suggest contemplation or introspection. She is draped in a sheer blue garment, its translucent fabric skillfully rendered to highlight its texture and delicacy. The background is subdued and earthy, allowing the figure to stand out prominently, showcasing Godward’s exceptional attention to detail and mastery of the medium.
