Sheet of Studies

Sheet of Studies

John Flaxman

1790

graphite

From the collection of National Gallery of Art

About this work

This drawing shows a sheet of sketches with various figures and poses. It's done in graphite, with simple lines and shading. The artist has drawn multiple studies on one page, exploring different ideas. The sketches seem to be quick studies, with the artist focusing on gesture and movement. They give a glimpse into the artist's process and thinking. To learn more about the artist's use of shading and contrast, look into the technique: sfumato.

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