Artwork

Study of a Seated Man Wearing a Helmet

Study of a Seated Man Wearing a Helmet, by George Richmond, graphite, 1827
Study of a Seated Man Wearing a Helmet, by George Richmond, graphite, 1827

Study of a Seated Man Wearing a Helmet is a graphite drawing by the Romanticist artist George Richmond. It dates from 1827 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

George Richmond's Study of a Seated Man Wearing a Helmet is a 1827 drawing executed in pen and brown ink with graphite on thin laid paper.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts a seated male figure wearing a helmet, with his arms resting on his knees and legs extended. The work reflects Richmond's early interest in capturing the human form, likely as an anatomical study.

Technique & Style

Richmond employed a loose, expressive style, utilizing ink and graphite to convey the figure's pose and musculature through shading and line work. The drawing showcases his use of hatching techniques to suggest volume and movement.

Context

Created during Richmond's association with The Ancients, a group influenced by William Blake, the drawing represents an early phase in his artistic development, prior to his establishment as a portrait painter for the British upper class.

Artist & collection

Portrait of George Richmond

Artist

George Richmond

George Richmond (28 March 1809 – 19 March 1896) was an English painter and portraitist.

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