Jean-Louis Greppo
1849
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
1849
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
This sketch shows a big-headed man with a long beard and a fancy coat, standing in front of a crowd. His face looks serious, and he’s touching his chin like he’s thinking hard. Behind him, a few smaller figures are drawn quickly—some standing, one sitting, and another pointing up like they’re in a courtroom or lecture hall. The drawing is rough but full of personality, using quick lines to show movement and mood. Daumier often used this style to make fun of powerful people in politics and law. If you like this kind of bold, expressive drawing, look up lithography.