Artwork

[Untitled] (Six Figure Studies) (recto) and [Untitled] (Seven Figure Studies) (verso)

[Untitled] (Six Figure Studies) (recto) and [Untitled] (Seven Figure Studies) (verso) is an unspecified painting by the American Impressionist artist Thomas Sully. It dates from 1837 and is held in the collection of the Brooklyn Museum.

About this work

Overview

Thomas Sully’s 1837 work, catalogued as an untitled pair of studies, presents a series of figure sketches on both sides of a single panel. The recto side contains six individual figures, while the verso side holds seven. Currently in the collection of the Brooklyn Museum, the piece serves as a demonstrative record of Sully’s practice in rendering the human form.

Subject & Meaning

The studies depict a range of bodily postures—standing, seated, and reclining—capturing the figure in both fully clothed and partially nude states. By juxtaposing varied attitudes and degrees of exposure, Sully explores the versatility of the human body as a subject for observation and artistic experimentation.

Technique & Style

Sully employs a spectrum of line work, from precise, finely shaded contours that reveal intricate fabric folds to looser, bold strokes that suggest form with minimal modeling. The contrast between detailed renderings and more sketch‑like figures highlights his command of tonal variation and his ability to convey texture and volume through economical means.

History & Provenance

Created in 1837, the double‑sided study remained in private hands before being acquired by the Brooklyn Museum, where it is displayed as part of the institution’s American painting holdings. Its presence in the museum’s collection underscores the importance of preparatory studies in understanding Sully’s broader oeuvre.

Artist & collection

Artist

Thomas Sully

Thomas Sully was an English-American portrait painter. He was born in England, became a naturalized American citizen in 1809, and lived most of his life in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, including in the Thomas Sully…