Studies of a Bearded Head and a Greek or Roman Coin

"Studies of a Bearded Head and a Greek or Roman Coin" is a masterful graphite drawing executed by Eugène Delacroix sometime between 1819 and 1829. This key period marks Delacroix’s emergence as a defining figure of French Romanticism, even as his methodology remained rooted in rigorous academic practice, including the intensive study of historical sources and human anatomy. The medium of graphite allows the artist to achieve remarkable precision and subtle tonal variation, demonstrating the foundation of draftsmanship underpinning his later expressive, color-focused oils.

The drawing is essentially a preparatory sheet featuring two distinct yet related subjects that reflect the artist's immersion in classical antiquity. The most prominent element is the bearded head, possibly a study of a live model or a detailed copy of an antique bust or sculpture. Delacroix renders the physiognomy with sharp focus, utilizing varying line weight to define the contours of the face and the texture of the hair. Adjacent to this figure study is a meticulous depiction of a classical coin, rendered in profile. Such studies of ancient coinage were vital to Delacroix, serving as reliable source material for costumes, heraldry, and historical accuracy in his ambitious historical and mythological paintings.

As a significant example of Delacroix's early career and sustained commitment to draftsmanship, this work offers crucial insight into the artist’s preparatory process. The classification of the work as a drawing ensures its place in the extensive graphic output of the artist. Today, this important piece of art history is held in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Because of its institutional placement and significance, this piece often enters the public domain, allowing enthusiasts and scholars to access high-quality prints and reference materials for further study.