Artwork
Studies of Figural Groups
Studies of Figural Groups is a graphite drawing by the Impressionist artist William Sidney Mount. It dates from 1866 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
- Inscription
- Inscribed:upper right in graphite: "Whats poor niggers going to do." / greys of all colors / in contrast / with brown / and black; left center in graphite: W. S. M.; lower left in graphite: W. S. M. / Dec. 3d a fine day; lower right in graphite: W. S. M. Dec-3-66 / White coat - light skirt / dark pants, brown bodice / Now Jim, cut me some / wood - or go without your / dinner
About this work
Overview
William Sidney Mount’s 1866 drawing titled Studies of Figural Groups is executed in graphite on wove paper. The work consists of a series of preparatory sketches that explore the arrangement and interaction of multiple human figures, reflecting Mount’s interest in composition and narrative development.
Technique & Style
The artist employs graphite to render delicate line work and tonal variations, allowing for quick adjustments and a focus on form rather than color. The use of wove paper provides a smooth surface that supports fine detail, characteristic of mid‑nineteenth‑century academic drawing practices.
History & Provenance
Created in the later period of Mount’s career, the drawing serves as a study for larger compositions. While specific ownership records are limited, the piece remains part of the documented oeuvre that illustrates Mount’s preparatory methods during the 1860s.
Own this work as a print
Artist & collection
Artist
William Sidney Mount (November 26, 1807 – November 19, 1868) was a 19th-century American genre painter.
