Two Studies of the Statue of Alexander and Bucephalus [verso]

Hubert Robert

1760

chalk

From the collection of National Gallery of Art

Romanticism 18th Century

About this work

This sketch shows two rough figures drawn in quick, loose lines. One person is bent over, holding something like a horse’s reins, while the other stands upright, arms outstretched. The paper looks old and worn, with faint edges and smudges. The drawing seems to copy a statue—one figure looks like a rider, the other like a horse. The lines are simple but full of movement, almost like a quick study. Next, check out the technique: sfumato to see how artists use soft blending.