In Hoofd van een meisje, we see a young girl with soft features and a gentle expression. The artist uses a warm palette, with shades of peach and cream dominating her face. Her hair is styled simply, allowing the viewer to focus on her delicate features.

The background is muted, emphasizing the girl as the central figure of the painting. The painting is executed in oil on canvas, a common medium for portraits during the Dutch Golden Age. The brushwork is smooth, creating a lifelike texture on the girl's skin and hair. The use of light and shadow adds depth, enhancing the three-dimensional quality of her face.

The composition is balanced, with the girl positioned slightly off-center, drawing the viewer's eye. Nicolaas van der Waay was known for his portraiture, capturing the essence of his subjects with great skill. Hoofd van een meisje showcases his ability to convey innocence and youth. An interesting fact about this work is that it reflects the societal values of the time, where portraits were often commissioned to celebrate family lineage.

This piece, while lesser-known, contributes to the understanding of Dutch portraiture in the late 19th century.