Artwork
Genius
Genius is an ink drawing by the Impressionist artist William Holbrook Beard. It dates from 1865 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
Genius is a 1865 drawing by American artist William Holbrook Beard, created with pen and black ink over graphite on paperboard.
Subject & Meaning
The drawing depicts a contemplative bearded man in a cap, his face illuminated from the side with sharp shadows. The subject's rough attire and weary expression convey a sense of quiet dignity, characteristic of Beard's portrayals of working-class individuals.
Technique & Style
Beard employed cross-hatching, using dense networks of fine lines to achieve a range of tonal values and create depth in the image.
Artist & collection
Artist
William Holbrook Beard (April 13, 1824 – February 20, 1900) was an American painter who is known best for his satirical paintings of beasts performing human-like activities.
