Bernard-Romain Julien — Study of a Female Head — Lithograph — ca. 1844

Delicate female academic study by Bernard-Romain Julien (1802–1871), after a model by Louis-Henri de Rudder (1807–1881), executed using crayon-manner lithography on toned paper.

The young woman is depicted in profile, with her hair carefully tied up and a serene expression. The modeling using blacks, grays, and light reserves reproduces the appearance of an academic charcoal drawing with great fidelity, while the white highlights visible on the dress and some illuminated areas appear to have been applied by hand, likely with chalk or a similar white medium.

The work belongs to the context of the great series of French academic studies intended for drawing instruction, a field in which Bernard-Romain Julien achieved particular recognition during the 19th century. Trained in Paris and specializing in lithography, Julien developed numerous plates conceived to reproduce the effects of pencil, charcoal, and chalk with enormous precision, making these prints authentic study models for artists and students.

The signature incorporated into the plate and remains of the original editorial caption are preserved at the bottom. A documented copy of this same composition is dated 1844 and has virtually identical measurements, so this print can reasonably be placed circa 1844.

Technical Sheet

• Author / lithographer: Bernard-Romain Julien (1802–1871)
• After: Louis-Henri de Rudder (1807–1881)
• Title: Study of a Female Head
• Date: ca. 1844
• Technique: Crayon-manner lithography on toned paper, with probable hand-applied white highlights
• Dimensions: 43 × 31 cm
• Signature: “Julien” signature incorporated into the plate
• Inscriptions: Remains of the original editorial caption in the lower margin
• Marks: Old stamped seal in the lower-left area
• Period: Mid-19th century
• Style: French Academicism
• Subject: Portrait / Academic study
• Provenance: Private collection
• Condition: Shows occasional oxidation, small spots, wear, and losses on some edges, as well as alterations consistent with its age. The lower caption is partially preserved. See photographs.

Workshop Note

The face turns to the left and tilts slightly, revealing the curve of the cheek and the shadow under the chin. The hair is organized into wavy bands that end in an updo; its dark areas contrast with the lights on the forehead and neck. At the bottom, the light folds of the fabric repeat this play of gradations and complete the study of volume against the toned background.