Head of Girl, Feather in Turban (c. 1912)

Dive into the captivating essence of "Head of Girl, Feather in Turban," a mesmerizing portrait painted by eminent American artist William James Glackens around 1912. This painting beautifully showcases Glackens's fascination with vibrant colors and expressive figures, reminiscent of European Impressionism which greatly influenced his style.In this intimate portrayal, the subject—a young girl—radiates a strong presence that belies her youthful age. Her face, marked by wide, introspective eyes and a softly pouted mouth, captures the viewer’s attention immediately. Her flowing light hair appears gently tucked under a stylish turban, adorned with a striking feather that adds an exotic appeal to her visage.The girl’s attire suggests elegance and richness, detailed with what seems to be a velvet coat or shawl that hugs her frame, lined with hints of colorful attire underneath. The background, blurred and abstract, allows the girl's figure to stand forefront, emphasized by the bold, confident strokes of Glackens’s brushwork."Head of Girl, Feather in Turban" not only serves as a testament to Glackens’s mastery in portrait painting but also encapsulates the spirited novelty of early 20th-century American art. As you observe this stunning piece, take a moment to appreciate the emotion and complexity woven through each brush stroke.