Statue of Seated Girl 1774

This delicate pencil drawing, titled "Statue of Seated Girl," is a study of classical sculpture by the English artist John Downman, created in 1774. The work is characterized by a soft and subtle use of line, capturing the graceful form of a seated female figure. The simplicity of the composition, with the figure set against a plain background, highlights the artist's keen observation of anatomy and drapery, creating a sense of both realism and idealized beauty. Downman, known for his portraits, utilized his mastery of line in this study, demonstrating his exploration of classical forms and their potential for expressive beauty. The "Statue of Seated Girl" exemplifies the neoclassical style prevalent in 18th-century British art, which drew inspiration from ancient Greek and Roman sculpture.