Artwork
The Earth Stopper

The Earth Stopper is a chalk drawing by the Romanticist artist James Ward. It dates from 1794 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
- Inscription
- Inscribed:by later hand, lower left verso: A8923
About this work
Overview
The Earth Stopper is a drawing created by James Ward in 1794, executed in black chalk with white highlights on brown laid paper.
Subject & Meaning
The drawing depicts a man with a serious expression, wearing a hat and jacket, with his arms crossed. His direct gaze and solemn demeanor convey a sense of intensity.
Technique & Style
The use of black chalk and white highlights on brown paper creates a sense of depth and dimensionality. The detailed lines and shading contribute to a rich, nuanced representation of the subject.
Context
The work is associated with the Romanticism movement, which valued emotion and individualism. The drawing's focus on a single figure and its expressive qualities are characteristic of this artistic trend.
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