Le Marchand d'habits
1842
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
1842
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
This sketch shows a man walking with a bundle of clothes over his shoulder. He’s wearing a long coat, a hat, and boots, and he holds a stick in one hand. His face looks tired, and his clothes are rumpled, like he’s been traveling. The title says he’s a "clothes merchant," selling old hats and shoes—probably to students needing quick costumes for parties. The sketch feels rough and fast, like it was drawn on the spot. If you like this style, check out lithography to see how artists made prints like this.
