1782
graphite
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
Sketch of a Swordsman Standing Over His Defeated Opponent [verso] is a 1782 graphite by William Blake, a Romanticism work, held at National Gallery of Art.
This sketch shows two rough figures in pencil. One stands upright, holding a sword, while the other lies on the ground. The lines are loose and quick, with no clear details beyond their shapes and poses. The artist focused on movement and tension, not perfection. The defeated figure’s arm stretches out awkwardly, while the standing one leans forward slightly—like they’re still in action. Next, check out Romanticism to see how artists used emotion and drama in their work.
William Blake (28 November 1757 – 12 August 1827) was an English poet, painter and printmaker.
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