“Head of a Little Girl (Elsbeth)” is a portrait created by the artist Paula Modersohn-Becker in the year 1902. Executed in tempera on board, this work, measuring 27 x 31.4 cm, is a notable piece within the Expressionist movement. The artwork is currently held in a private collection.
In “Head of a Little Girl (Elsbeth),” the viewer is presented with the poignant and emotive depiction of a young girl’s face. The artist’s use of tempera imparts a textured and somewhat raw quality, emphasizing the intensity of the child’s wide eyes and ruddy cheeks. The girl’s long, flowing hair frames her face, rendered in warm, earthy tones that contrast with the darker, subdued background. The simplicity and directness of the composition draw the viewer’s attention immediately to the child’s expressive features, capturing a moment of innocent wonder and vulnerability. Through her distinct style, Modersohn-Becker successfully conveys the profundity of simple human emotion.
