Edvard Munch, Head of an Old Woman, 1883

Edvard Munch (1863–1944)
Head of an Old Woman, 1883
Charcoal and wash on paper
325 × 235 mm (12 ¾ × 9 ¼ in)

Long before The Scream made him an icon of modern art, Edvard Munch (1863–1944) was a young artist deeply rooted in tradition. At just twenty years old, in 1883, he created Head of an Old Woman, a striking charcoal and wash drawing that reveals both his reverence for the Old Masters and the seeds of his psychological exploration of the human soul.

Presented by @Galerie.AmbroiseDuchemin at the Salon du Dessin 2025, this poignant portrait predates Munch’s discovery of Impressionism in Paris. Yet, even at this early stage, his ability to capture inner truth is unmistakable. Without sentimentality, he renders age with tenderness and honesty, recalling the chiaroscuro and introspection of Rembrandt. The deep shadows and delicate modelling suggest not just physical likeness but an entire lifetime on paper.

This drawing offers a rare glimpse into the genesis of Munch’s lifelong ambition to express more than appearances, to unveil the emotions and existential depths of his subjects.

📍 Salon du Dessin | 24–31 March 2025 | @PalaisBrongniart, Paris
🔗 More information at salondudessin.com

This article is published on ArtAddict Galleria, where we explore the intersections of art, history, and culture. Stay tuned for more insights and discoveries!