Three Ladies Chatting
1770
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
1770
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
This sketch shows three women standing close together, chatting. Their clothes are loose and flowing, with one wearing a hooded cloak and another holding a fan. The lines are quick and rough, like a fast drawing, with some shading to show folds in the fabric. The artist used ink and wash to add depth, making the figures pop slightly against the plain background. The women look relaxed but focused on each other, like they’re sharing a secret. Next, check out cross-hatching to see how artists build shadows with lines.
