Artwork

Studies of Figures

Studies of Figures, by James Goodwyn Clonney, graphite, 1840
Studies of Figures, by James Goodwyn Clonney, graphite, 1840

Studies of Figures is a graphite drawing by the Romanticist artist James Goodwyn Clonney. It dates from 1840 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Studies of Figures is a graphite drawing on wove paper created by James Goodwyn Clonney around 1840.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts everyday people and explores their relationships, often featuring interactions between individuals of different racial backgrounds as equals, reflecting Clonney's interest in social themes.

Technique & Style

Executed in graphite, the work showcases Clonney's skill in a medium suited to his characteristic small-scale, detailed style, often used in his miniature paintings.

Context

Clonney's work was influenced by his interest in rural subjects and the social dynamics of his time, including the relationships between people of different backgrounds.

Artist & collection

Artist

James Goodwyn Clonney

James Goodwyn Clonney (28 December 1812, Liverpool (?) – 7 October 1867, Binghamton, NY) was an English-born American genre painter and lithographer.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.