“Study of a Woman’s Head,” created by Thomas Eakins in 1881, represents the Realism art movement and is categorized under the genre of sketch and study.
The artwork presents a meticulous exploration of a woman’s profile, rendered in meticulous brushstrokes that emphasize the contours and subtleties of the subject. The use of dark hues coupled with lighter, almost luminous tones highlights the depth and dimensionality of the figure. The background, composed of swift, broad strokes, contrasts with the delicacy of the woman’s features, thus accentuating the focal point of the study. The overall composition reflects Eakins’ dedication to capturing realistic human expressions and forms, embodying the principles of the Realism movement.