The Departure for Versailles

The Departure for Versailles

Jean-Louis Forain

1919

ink

From the collection of National Gallery of Art

About this work

This sketch shows two people in loose, flowing robes. One sits on a bench, head down, while the other stands nearby, holding what looks like a bundle or a walking stick. The lines are quick and uneven, with some areas filled in with dark ink. The paper has a textured look, like old paper. The artist used a mix of light pencil and bold ink strokes to suggest movement and mood. The faces are simple but expressive, with a hint of tiredness or worry. Next, check out the technique: cross-hatching to see how artists build shading with lines.

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