Study for Sculpture of William III n.d.

This is a study by John Michael Rysbrack, a prominent sculptor who worked in England in the 18th century, for a sculpture of William III. The study, which is done in pen and brown wash, depicts the head of a horse with a bridle. The horse’s mane is drawn with meticulous detail, and the intricate lines used to depict the horse’s features reflect the artist's interest in naturalism, which characterized the Baroque era. The drawing is a preparatory work for a larger sculpture, likely created for a public monument. This artwork, now held by The Art Institute of Chicago, is a great example of the artist's skill and mastery of anatomical detail.