Earl of Mansfield 1779 - 1780

This preparatory sketch for a portrait of William Murray, the Earl of Mansfield, was created in 1779-1780 by American painter John Singleton Copley. Copley's sketch depicts the Earl seated, likely in the setting for the finished portrait. The use of graphite on paper, with highlights in white, creates a sense of immediacy, capturing the Earl's formal attire and dignified posture. The sketch likely served as a study for composition and details, providing a roadmap for Copley's final composition.