DYCK, Sir Anthony van
(b. 1599, Antwerpen, d. 1641, London)

Studies of a Man's Head

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Oil on panel, 53 x 98 cm
Rockox House, Antwerp

The preparatory work for large paintings was not usually confined to one or more oil sketches, but generally included detail studies as well. The Studies of a Man's Head painted from life by Van Dyck are an excellent example of this.