Profile Portrait of a Young Woman
Drawing on paper • Attributed to 'Alan L...', possibly Alan Lowndes or a regional commercial illustrator; signature is present but partially obscured by shadow and glass reflection.
Style & Movement
Mid-century Realism / Illustrative Portraiture
Medium & Technique
Charcoal or conté crayon on paper; employs cross-hatching, smudging for tonal transition, and bold gestural linework in the hair.
Creation Period
Mid-20th Century (circa 1950s–1960s based on hairstyle and graphic style)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 12 x 16 inches; vertical portrait format.
Subject Description
A side-profile portrait of a young woman with a period-typical 'bouffant' or 'bob' hairstyle. The composition focuses on the sharp line of the jaw and nose, using high contrast between the dark charcoal and the light paper to create depth.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Fair to Good; visible horizontal crease through the center and significant foxing/discoloration of the paper support.
Estimated Market Value
$150 - $400 USD
Auction Estimate
$100 - $300 USD
Provenance History
Likely a private commission or study; no visible gallery labels. The frame suggests a domestic mid-to-late 20th-century history.
Art Historical Significance
Representative of mid-century academic drawing styles often found in art school studies or professional illustration portfolios from the post-war era.
Notable Features
Distinctive fluid signature in the lower left; energetic, almost calligraphic treatment of the hair which contrasts with the more traditional modeling of the face.
Condition Issues
Prominent horizontal fold or tear across the middle; yellowing (acidification) of the paper; dark spots (foxing) near the top; mounting tape/residue visible at edges.
Conservation Recommendations
Professional de-acidification; flattening of the central crease; re-housing in an acid-free mat with UV-protective glass to prevent further yellowing.