Artwork

Figure Sketches

Figure Sketches, by Gabriel de Saint-Aubin, chalk, 1752
Figure Sketches, by Gabriel de Saint-Aubin, chalk, 1752

Figure Sketches is a chalk drawing by the Baroque artist Gabriel de Saint-Aubin. It dates from 1752 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Figure Sketches is a drawing created by Gabriel de Saint-Aubin in 1752, executed in a mix of media on two overlapping sheets of laid paper.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing features a collection of nude figures in various poses, captured in swift and gestural strokes, conveying a sense of movement and energy.

Technique & Style

The artist employed a layered approach, starting with light pencil lines, then adding ink and wash to define the figures, and utilizing cross-hatching to build form and depth.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Gabriel de Saint-Aubin

Artist

Gabriel de Saint-Aubin

Gabriel de Saint-Aubin was a French draftsman, printmaker, etcher and painter.

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