Achilles and Patroclus
1786
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
1786
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
This sketch shows two men lying on the ground in dramatic poses. One is stretched out flat, arms flung wide, while the other kneels beside him, head bowed. The lines are loose and quick, with some areas filled in lightly with brown wash. The scene feels urgent, like a moment frozen in time. The artist used simple ink and wash to suggest movement and emotion. The rough, sketchy style makes the figures feel alive despite the unfinished look. Check out cross-hatching to see how artists build depth with just lines.
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