Study of an Old Woman (1886)

August von Pettenkofen is the artist behind "Study of an Old Woman", dated 1886. Background on Drawings: Because line carries so much of the effect, drawings tend to reward close looking at the quality of the mark. Artists have long used drawings to plan paintings, sculptures, and buildings, so a sketch can show how an idea developed. Historical background, 1886: Japanese prints reached Europe in large numbers and influenced many artists, while photography changed what painting needed to do. The later nineteenth century is the era of Impressionism, whose first group exhibition was held in Paris in 1874, followed by Post-Impressionism, Symbolism, and the Arts and Crafts movement. It is listed in the Drawings collection. The image is in portrait orientation.

"Study of an Old Woman" is shown in the onlly.art catalogue for reference and browsing. A portrait format suits narrow wall spaces, hallways, and the area beside a door or window. Drawings and sketches stand out through line clarity and a sense of the artist process, which makes them a natural fit for minimalist, monochrome, and graphic interiors. Browsing works by the same artist, or from the same period, is a good way to compare styles before choosing what suits your space.

Austrian, 1822–1889

If you like the visual language of August von Pettenkofen, explore more works by the same artist in our collection.