Artwork
The Cadet
The Cadet is a graphite drawing by the Impressionist artist Robert William Vonnoh. It dates from 1801 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
The Cadet is a graphite drawing on blue-gray prepared wove paper, created by Robert William Vonnoh in 1801. It depicts a young man in military attire seated on a bench or ledge.
Subject & Meaning
The subject is a youthful figure in a military-style uniform, complete with buttoned jacket and cap pulled low over the forehead. The depiction suggests a focus on the individual rather than a specific military context.
Technique & Style
Vonnoh employed a combination of graphite shading and scratched highlights to achieve contrast, notably in the bright accents on the lapel and cap, which draw attention to the figure against a subdued, loosely stroked background.
History & Provenance
Created in 1801, the drawing is characteristic of Vonnoh's early work, exemplifying his sketchy style during this period.
Context
The piece reflects early 19th-century artistic tendencies towards expressive, quickly executed drawings, often used for practice or study.
Legacy
The Cadet contributes to the understanding of Vonnoh's developmental style, particularly his use of mixed media techniques in early works.
Artist & collection
