Woman’s Profile to Right Camillo Procaccini (1561-1629)

The drawing presents a womans profile viewed in three-quarter perspective, turned towards the right. The composition is contained within an arched format, which emphasizes the figure’s verticality and creates a sense of enclosure. Here we see a delicate rendering of features; the nose is long and slender, the lips are softly defined, and the chin possesses a gentle curve.
The most striking element is undoubtedly the elaborate hairstyle. A cascade of curls fills much of the upper portion of the composition, rendered with a remarkable density of lines that suggest both volume and texture. The artist employed varying degrees of pressure to create tonal shifts within the hair, conveying highlights and shadows that give it a palpable sense of three-dimensionality.
The skin tones are subtly modeled using a combination of light washes and precise linework. A blush is visible on the cheeks and lips, adding a touch of vitality to the subject’s expression. The eyes, though partially obscured by shadow, convey an impression of quiet introspection.
The drawings technique suggests a study or preparatory work rather than a finished piece. The loose, gestural quality of the lines, particularly in the rendering of the hair and neck, indicates a focus on capturing form and volume rapidly. There is a sense of immediacy and spontaneity to the execution.
Subtly, the drawing conveys an air of refinement and elegance. The woman’s posture and features suggest a person of status or education. The arched format itself contributes to this impression, evoking associations with classical portraiture and ideal beauty. The overall effect is one of restrained grace and understated nobility. A small mark at the bottom center suggests a watermark or makers mark, adding another layer of historical context to the work.