Artwork

Three Reclining Female Figures

Three Reclining Female Figures, by John Flaxman, graphite, 1790
Three Reclining Female Figures, by John Flaxman, graphite, 1790

Three Reclining Female Figures is a graphite drawing by the Romanticist artist John Flaxman. It dates from 1790 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Three Reclining Female Figures is a graphite drawing created by John Flaxman in 1790. It showcases the artist's skill as a draughtsman and his adherence to Neoclassical principles.

Technique & Style

The drawing demonstrates Flaxman's distinctive linear style, developed during his time in Rome. His use of graphite highlights his ability to achieve compositional clarity through simple, yet effective, lines.

History & Provenance

Flaxman's career began with designing models for Josiah Wedgwood's pottery. His subsequent travels to Rome significantly influenced his artistic style, as seen in this drawing.

Context

As a Neoclassical artist, Flaxman drew inspiration from classical forms, which is evident in the figures depicted in the drawing.

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.