Seated Woman Looking Down
1720
chalk
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
1720
chalk
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
This sketch shows a woman sitting with her head slightly tilted down. Her hair is pulled back, and she wears a high-necked dress with puffed sleeves. The artist used soft lines and shading to show her face and clothing, leaving some areas lightly drawn. The red and black chalk gives the drawing a warm, shadowy look, almost like a quick study. This style was common for artists practicing poses or expressions before finishing a painting. Check out Baroque to see how artists used drama and movement in their work.