Artwork

The Earth Stopper

The Earth Stopper, by James Ward, chalk, 1794
The Earth Stopper, by James Ward, chalk, 1794

The Earth Stopper is a chalk drawing by the Romanticist artist James Ward. It dates from 1794 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

The Earth Stopper is a drawing created by James Ward in 1794, executed in black chalk with white highlights on brown laid paper.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts a man with a serious expression, wearing a hat and jacket, with his arms crossed. His direct gaze and solemn demeanor convey a sense of intensity.

Technique & Style

The use of black chalk and white highlights on brown paper creates a sense of depth and dimensionality. The detailed lines and shading contribute to a rich, nuanced representation of the subject.

Context

The work is associated with the Romanticism movement, which valued emotion and individualism. The drawing's focus on a single figure and its expressive qualities are characteristic of this artistic trend.

Artist & collection

Portrait of James Ward

Artist

James Ward

James Ward (1769–1859) was an artist, born in London.

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