Artwork

Preparing to Run; Running; Striking

Preparing to Run; Running; Striking, by George Scharf, ink, 1829
Preparing to Run; Running; Striking, by George Scharf, ink, 1829

Preparing to Run; Running; Striking is an ink print by the Romanticist artist George Scharf. It dates from 1829 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Preparing to Run; Running; Striking is a lithograph by George Scharf, dated 1829, depicting three sequential stick-figure poses in dynamic motion.

Subject & Meaning

The print illustrates three distinct actions: crouching to sprint, mid-stride running, and throwing with a twisted body. Labels and annotations emphasize the role of body weight in the throwing motion, suggesting a focus on the mechanics of human movement.

Technique & Style

Executed as a lithograph (in its proof stage, before lettering), the work showcases Scharf's use of this medium for detailed, instructional graphics. The stick-figure style facilitates clarity in conveying movement and technique.

History & Provenance

Created in 1829, specific details regarding the print's provenance and exhibition history are not provided in the available information.

Context

The piece reflects early 19th-century interests in capturing and analyzing human motion, a theme present in both artistic and scientific pursuits of the time. Understanding the lithographic process (see separate note on lithography) provides insight into the work's creation.

Legacy

The enduring significance of Preparing to Run; Running; Striking lies in its representation of a transitional period in the study of human movement, though its broader impact on subsequent artistic or scientific developments is not detailed in the provided sources.

Artist & collection

Portrait of George Scharf

Artist

George Scharf

George Scharf (1829–1829) was an artist.

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