Cardinal Manning, 2nd plate
1874
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
1874
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
This sketch shows a side view of an older man’s head and shoulders. The lines are loose and quick, focusing on the shape of his face, wrinkles, and the way his hair curls. His collar is visible but not detailed, and the paper’s edge cuts off his hand. The artist used light pencil strokes to suggest shadows and texture, like the folds of his neck and the curve of his cheek. This style feels more like a quick study than a polished portrait. Next, check out the technique: lithography to see how artists like Legros made prints with stone and ink.
