Study of a Man in Profile
Medium
Classification
Department
Smithsonian Collection
Museum
Smithsonian American Art Museum
Credit
Purchased for the Museum by the Advisory Council
Accession Number
1921-6-491-20
About this artwork
Research in Progress
Art Historical Context
Antoine Watteau’s “Study of a Man in Profile,” created in 1734, captures the refined elegance that defined early eighteenth-century French art. Although Watteau himself passed away in 1721, this print preserves his sensitive approach to figure drawing, likely reproducing one of preparatory sketches. Such studies were essential to his practice, allowing him to explore subtle expressions and graceful poses that later appeared in his celebrated fêtes galantes paintings of leisurely outdoor gatherings. As a print, the work played an important role in spreading Watteau’s influence beyond Paris. En...