Portrait of Robert Stephenson (1803-1859)
1839
watercolor
From the collection of Victoria and Albert Museum
1839
watercolor
From the collection of Victoria and Albert Museum
This sketch shows a man in a dark coat and light cravat, sitting with one arm resting on a chair. His face is pale, with sharp eyes and short hair. Behind him, a rough outline of a ship or bridge is barely visible, and his hand holds a hat. The artist used quick, loose strokes—some areas are barely there, while his face pops with a few bold lines. This sketchy style makes it feel like a first try, not a finished work. Next, check out Victoria and Albert Museum to see more of this sketch up close.
