Artwork
Sketch of a Swordsman Standing Over His Defeated Opponent [recto]
![Sketch of a Swordsman Standing Over His Defeated Opponent [recto], by William Blake, graphite, 1782](https://artifactworldgallery.com/img/william-blake--sketch-of-a-swordsman-standing-over-his-defeated-opponent-re--c9ecb7b4c136050a-w1024.webp)
Sketch of a Swordsman Standing Over His Defeated Opponent [recto] is a graphite drawing by the Romanticist artist William Blake. It dates from 1782 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
This graphite drawing, created around 1782, is a work by William Blake, an English artist known for his contributions to poetry and printmaking. The sketch is characteristic of his early graphic style.
Subject & Meaning
The drawing depicts a dramatic scene of two men engaged in combat, with one standing victorious over his defeated opponent. The figures convey a sense of tension and dynamic movement.
Technique & Style
Executed in graphite on plain paper, the sketch features quick, light lines that prioritize capturing the drama and energy of the scene over detailed representation. The monochromatic shading creates a sense of depth and focus on the figures' interaction.
Artist & collection
Artist
William Blake (28 November 1757 – 12 August 1827) was an English poet, painter and printmaker.
![Sheet of Studies [recto and verso], by John Flaxman](https://artifactworldgallery.com/img/john-flaxman--sheet-of-studies-recto-and-verso--6fd1500085ec614c-w320.webp)
![Studies for a Monument with Angels Reaching Down to a Praying Figure [recto and verso], by John Flaxman](https://artifactworldgallery.com/img/john-flaxman--studies-for-a-monument-with-angels-reaching-down-to-a-prayin--9d789ab993a76a50-w320.webp)
