“Portrait of Elizabeth Siddal,” created in 1855 by the artist Dante Gabriel Rossetti, is a pen drawing that exemplifies the Romanticism movement. This portrait is a centerpiece of the genre and is housed at the Ashmolean Museum in Oxford, UK.
The artwork portrays Elizabeth Siddal with a serene and contemplative expression, characteristic of Rossetti’s romantic style. Her eyes are downcast, creating a sense of introspection and quiet dignity. The use of pen as a medium allows for a detailed representation, with elaborate cross-hatching giving texture and depth to the image. The background is composed of fine, linear strokes, contrasting with the softer depiction of Siddal’s features, creating an austere yet intimate atmosphere. The combination of delicate line work and tonal shading brings forth a sense of ethereal beauty that is both timeless and poignant.
