trending ! Antique Charcoal Pencil Drawing “The Freshman” by Ackley: Silhouette of Woman

As shown. See all photos. A stunning piece. What a pretty profile. Wearing a fancy hat and a cross necklace. Attributed to “Ackley,” though I’ve no clue who that is and neither does the internet. Back says “The Freshman” and also, oddly, “chaparral half tone.” No idea what the latter could mean. You? Found this work among my late mother’s numerous belongings. Discoloration. AI offers the following info:

“The image is a pencil (??) drawing of a woman in profile, wearing a large hat adorned with flowers. The style and subject matter suggest it could be an artwork by Paul Cesar Helleu (NO), a French artist known for his portraits of women during the Belle Époque. Helleu often depicted women in fashionable hats, capturing their elegance and sophistication. The signature at the bottom of the drawing appears to match Helleu's style. The drawing's fine lines and shading create a delicate and refined aesthetic, characteristic of Helleu's work.”

Clearly AI has a long way to go.

9.25” x 13.25”