Head of a Woman

Aristide Maillol began his career as a painter and tapestry designer. He later devoted himself almost exclusively to three-dimensional work, becoming one of the most important sculptors of the 20th century. His focus was the female form, inspired by the classical tradition of Greek and Roman art. In its design, this example of a head of woman shows a sleek linearity that defines a more Modernist aesthetic.

While sculpture is a smaller component of the collection, consisting of some 100 works, Duncan Phillips supported its inclusion from the early years of the museum. He purchased this bronze in 1927 from Weyhe Gallery for $1,000. Soon after, it was on view in the exhibition Leaders of French Art Today, together with recently acquired works by Picasso, Bonnard, and Braque.