Seven Men in Antique Dress
1798
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
1798
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
This sketch shows seven men in flowing robes, standing close together. One man in the center holds a round object like a shield, while another raises his arm. The lines are quick and loose, with lots of shading to show muscle and fabric. The paper has a textured look, like old paper. The artist used pen and ink to create deep shadows and movement. This style was common in studies for larger paintings. Look up cross-hatching to see how artists build up shadows with lines.
