Head of a Woman in a Turban

With its carefully thought out composition and effective arrangement of colours, this study bears witness to the artist's great skill and professionalism. The sitter's face is framed by elegant twists of dark, glossy hair, falling charmingly from beneath the turban. The smooth line of the shoulders is repeated in the form of the turban itself, while the soft rosy cheeks and warm tones of the body, set off by the cold lilac colour of the shawl, echo the deep burgundy and gold of the turban. The precise drawing and sculptured modelling of forms identify Girodet as a pupil and follower of David.