Les Graces (The Graces)
1766
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
1766
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
This sketch shows three plump, naked figures tangled together in a swirl. One sits in the middle, holding up a child, while others lean in close, their arms and legs wrapped around each other. The background is just rough, smudgy lines—like clouds or a stormy sky. The whole scene feels busy but soft, with no sharp edges. The title *Les Graces* (The Graces) hints these figures might stand for kindness or beauty in stories. The artist used a mix of scratchy lines and smooth shading to give it life, almost like a quick, messy drawing. Want to see more? Check out the technique: etching.
