Description
Anthony Van Dyck's Study Of The Head Of A Woman Looking Upward is a masterpiece of Flemish Baroque art. This painting, done in oil on canvas, shows a female head in the foreground, with her gaze directed towards the sky. The composition is simple but striking, with dramatic lighting highlighting the model's facial features.
Van Dyck's artistic style is characterized by his ability to capture the beauty and elegance of his subjects, as well as his loose, flowing brushwork technique. In this work, the artist manages to capture the delicacy and serenity of the portrayed woman, with a subtlety that only the great masters can achieve.
Color is another prominent aspect of this painting. Van Dyck uses a palette of soft and warm tones that create an atmosphere of tranquility and harmony. The contrast between light and shadow, as well as the details in the model's clothing and hair, add depth and texture to the work.
The history of this painting is fascinating. It is believed that it was made as a preparatory study for a larger work, possibly a portrait of Queen Henrietta Maria of England. However, the work was never completed and the study of the woman's head became a separate work.
Also, there is a little-known aspect of this painting that makes it even more interesting. The model is said to have been an Italian courtesan named Giovanna Cenami, who became Van Dyck's mistress during his stay in Italy. Giovanna's beauty and elegance inspired the artist in many of his works, including this one.