Young Woman with a Turban, c. 1780. Known as a tête dexpression or "Expressive Head," this painting represents an essential part of the academic training of history painters-artists who specialized in religious, mythological, or historical subjects. In 1760 such exercises became standard at the École des Beaux-Arts (School of Fine Arts) in Paris. Focusing on the relationship between morality and beauty, the goal of a history painter is not only to present viewers a pleasing image, but also to elevate their moral standards by representing the emotions of the soul.

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Size: 3983px × 4759px
Photo credit: © Heritage Art/Heritage Images / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No

Keywords: 1748-1825, 18th, art, canvas, century, cleveland, david, france, french, heritage, jacques-louis, museum, oil, painting