Right Arm, study for "Una" 1829 - 1832

Curator: The delicacy of this graphite on paper drawing is striking. Editor: It's ethereal! There's such lightness in the way Allston captured this right arm. Curator: Indeed. Washington Allston created "Right Arm, study for 'Una'" as preparation for his painting. We see the influence of academic tradition. Editor: One notices the careful attention to musculature and the subtle gradations of light and shadow. The drawing serves as a clear example of meticulous planning. Curator: And consider the labor invested here. Each line, each shadow contributes to the final composition. The purpose was obviously larger than this work alone. Editor: The precision is remarkable. The gesture of the hand, even in this study, conveys so much. Curator: A wonderful demonstration of the vital role studies played in Allston’s process. Editor: It gives us an intimate perspective on Allston's method.