Figure Studies; Studies of Soldiers [verso]

Paul Gauguin

1886

crayon

From the collection of National Gallery of Art

Impressionism Realism Late 19th Century

About this work

This sketch shows quick, loose drawings of people in motion. On the left, two figures walk side by side, their arms swinging. On the right, two men in hats stand stiffly, one with a cane. The lines are rough and uneven, like hurried notes. The drawings focus on body shapes and clothing, not details. The artist used simple strokes to capture movement and posture. Next, look up Realism to see how artists like this one focused on everyday life.