Study of a bull
1850
From the collection of Victoria and Albert Museum
1850
From the collection of Victoria and Albert Museum
This sketch shows a bull’s side view, drawn in loose, quick lines. The animal’s head is turned slightly, and its body is outlined with light strokes that leave the paper mostly blank. The artist didn’t fill in details—just enough to show the shape and muscle. The drawing looks like it was made fast, almost like a note to remember the animal’s form. Cooper was known for studying animals closely, and this sketch feels like a practice piece. Check out the Victoria and Albert Museum to see more of his work.
