Simeon Solomon (1840-1905)

This drawing moves away from the stylisation often seen in Solomon’s female heads, and presents a realism unusual in his late work. As such it seems likely that this is a portrait of an individual rather than a study for an allegorical or religious work. The use of the cream tone of the paper as the skin-tone, with the black chalk merely adding shadow, gives his sitter a remarkable radiance and strengthens her handsome features.