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Three Figures [verso]

Mather Brown

1785

graphite

From the collection of National Gallery of Art

Romanticism 18th Century

Dominant colour

Three Figures [verso] is a 1785 graphite by Mather Brown, a Romanticism work, held at National Gallery of Art.

Who painted this?: Mather Brown
When & what style?: 1785 · Romanticism
Where can I see it?: National Gallery of Art

About this work

This sketch features three figures, with the one on the left wearing a long robe and gesturing with both hands. The figure on the right is nude, with their right arm outstretched and their left arm bent at the elbow. The background is a light brown color with visible pencil marks and smudges. The sketch appears to be a study of human form and movement, with the artist focusing on the flow of the figures' bodies. The use of graphite, pen, and ink creates a range of line weights and textures, adding depth and interest to the composition. The sketch is reminiscent of the work of other Romantic-era artists who explored the human form in their art. For more information on this style, look into the Romanticism movement.