Head of a Young Boy

Jean-Baptiste Greuze

Created:
Movement:
1763
Rococo
key Notes:
Expressive innocence, Rococo portraiture
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Dimensions:
18 7/8 x 15 3/8 in. (47.9 x 39.1 cm)
medium:
Oil on canvas
story of the work:

"Head of a Young Boy" is a painting by French artist Jean-Baptiste Greuze, created in 1763. The work exemplifies Greuze's interest in capturing the emotional depth and innocence of youth. It features a close-up portrayal of a young boy's face, characterized by soft lighting and a delicate color palette. Greuze was known for his ability to convey psychological insight through portraiture, and this painting reflects his mastery in rendering facial expressions. The painting is part of the genre of genre painting, which focuses on everyday subjects and human emotions. The specific provenance of "Head of a Young Boy" is not well-documented, and its current location is unknown. Greuze's works were influential in the 18th century and contributed to the development of sentimentalism in art.

Description of the work:

"Head of a Young Boy," created by Jean-Baptiste Greuze in 1763, is an oil on canvas painting that captures the delicate features of a young boy's face. The composition is characterized by a close-up view, emphasizing the boy's expressive eyes and soft, rounded cheeks. The use of light and shadow creates a three-dimensional effect, enhancing the realism of the subject. Greuze employs a warm color palette, with subtle variations in skin tones that convey a sense of vitality. The background is softly blurred, directing focus to the boy's face and contributing to an intimate atmosphere. The brushwork is refined, showcasing Greuze's skill in rendering textures, particularly in the boy's hair and skin. Overall, the painting exemplifies the artist's ability to evoke emotion and character through portraiture.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Metropolitan Museum of Art

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Head of a Young Boy