The artwork is a sketch entitled “Study for the Head of Oedipus,” created by the artist Gustave Moreau around the year 1860. It belongs to the Romanticism art movement and is categorized as a sketch and study genre. This piece is housed in the Musée National Gustave Moreau in Paris, France.
The artwork depicts a detailed and introspective study of a young male head, presumably that of Oedipus. The drawing focuses on the side profile of the subject, emphasizing the contours of the face, the flow of the hair, and the intensity in the eyes. The meticulous linework and shading bring a sense of depth and emotion to the sketch, exemplifying Moreau’s skill in capturing both physical likeness and psychological depth. The use of delicate lines and soft shading enhances the expression, reflecting the Romanticism movement’s emphasis on emotion and individualism.
