Bust-length Sketch of Woman in Coat and Scarf 

This is a simple yet striking sketch by American abstract expressionist painter Mark Rothko. Created in black ink on paper, the piece features a woman in a coat and scarf. The gestural lines capture the essence of the subject, leaving room for the viewer’s interpretation. While Rothko is known for his abstract color-field paintings, this drawing demonstrates his early fascination with human form and expression. It provides a glimpse into the development of the artist’s visual language, showcasing the raw energy and expressiveness that would later characterize his abstract works.