Two Studies of a Dancer, Raising Her Skirt in Her Two Hands 1712 - 1713

Jean-Antoine Watteau made this drawing, "Two Studies of a Dancer, Raising Her Skirt in Her Two Hands," in the early 18th century, using red chalk on paper. Though seemingly simple, the drawing's material qualities offer insight into Watteau's artistic process. Chalk, as a medium, allowed for a remarkable range of expression, from delicate lines to more forceful strokes. The texture of the chalk against the paper creates a subtle, almost tactile quality, that you can imagine by looking closely. Watteau’s choice of red chalk is also significant. It allowed him to capture the warmth of human flesh, conveying a sense of vitality and immediacy. The softness of the medium allowed him to easily manipulate tone and create subtle gradations of light and shadow, giving the figures volume and depth. Drawings like this one were not intended as finished works of art, but were preparatory studies for paintings. Yet they also stand alone as beautiful objects, demonstrating Watteau’s mastery of his materials and his keen observation of the world around him. This highlights how "craft" practices underpin even the most refined artistic achievements.