Head study of Dorothy Dene, in profile, for ‘Faith’ — History & Facts
In Head study of Dorothy Dene, in profile, for ‘Faith’, the viewer sees a delicate profile of a woman, Dorothy Dene. The painting features soft, muted colors, primarily warm tones that highlight the subject's features. The background is simple, allowing the focus to remain on Dene's serene expression and graceful lines.
The overall composition conveys a sense of calm and introspection. This work is a drawing that showcases Leighton's skill in capturing the subtleties of human expression. The use of oil on canvas allows for smooth blending of colors, enhancing the lifelike quality of the portrait. The dimensions are approximately 25 x 35 cm, making it a small yet intimate piece.
The profile view emphasizes the elegance of Dene's features, particularly her hair and neck. Frederic Leighton was a prominent figure in the Victorian art scene, known for his classical themes and attention to detail. This particular study was created as a preparatory work for the larger painting Faith, which features Dene as the central figure. An interesting fact about this piece is that Dene was not only a model but also a close friend of Leighton, which adds a personal connection to the artwork.
More Artworks by Frederic Leighton

Flaming June
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The Bath of Psyche
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The Interior of St Mark’s Basilica, Venice
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Portrait of May Sartoris, Mrs Henry Evans Gordon
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Orpheus And Eurydice
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Pastorale
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Jacob and Esau
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Amarilla
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Bacchante
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Cain and Abel
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