Study for a Portrait of a Lady c. early 17th century

This charcoal drawing, "Study for a Portrait of a Lady," was created by the Flemish painter Anthony van Dyck around the early 17th century. Van Dyck was a master of portraiture, and his sketches, like this one, reveal his meticulous attention to detail. The artist's careful lines capture the graceful pose of the lady, highlighting her flowing gown and the delicate folds of fabric. This preparatory sketch, made in anticipation of a more finished portrait, demonstrates van Dyck's artistic process and his skill in capturing the essence of his subjects.