Artwork

Sheet of Studies [recto and verso]

Sheet of Studies [recto and verso], by John Flaxman, ink, 1790
Sheet of Studies [recto and verso], by John Flaxman, ink, 1790

Sheet of Studies [recto and verso] is an ink drawing by the Romanticist artist John Flaxman. It dates from 1790 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art. This drawing, created in 1790, is a sheet of studies featuring various sketches on both its recto and verso sides.

About this work

Overview

This drawing, created in 1790, is a sheet of studies featuring various sketches on both its recto and verso sides. The artist, John Flaxman, employed different media, including pen, brown ink, and graphite, to produce the work.

Technique & Style

The drawing showcases Flaxman's linear style, characterized by restrained use of pen and brown ink over graphite on the recto, while the verso features graphite alone. The layering of brown ink over graphite adds depth and texture to the sketches.

Subject & Meaning

The sheet combines preparatory sketches and figural studies, reflecting Flaxman's work as a designer of funerary monuments and illustrator. The studies demonstrate his focus on form and clarity.

Context

Flaxman was a key figure in the Neoclassicism movement, having trained under Josiah Wedgwood and later studied in Rome, where his style developed.

Artist & collection

Portrait of John Flaxman

Artist

John Flaxman

John Flaxman (6 July 1755 – 7 December 1826) was an English sculptor and draughtsman who was a leading figure in British and European Neoclassicism.

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