Genius 1865 - 1895

This drawing, 'Genius', was made by William Holbrook Beard using ink on paper. Look closely, and you'll see a complex pattern of lines that create the image of an eagle perched on a rock. Beard was a prolific artist who was known for his narrative paintings and his depictions of animals. He created this drawing with delicate strokes of ink to capture the look and feel of the eagle's feathers, imbuing it with a sense of life. Beard’s work reflects a culture of both academic training and popular appeal in America. His artistic training allowed him to render the eagle's anatomy with precision, while his choice of subject reflects the society's interest in wildlife. By focusing on the materials, techniques, and cultural context that shaped this drawing, we can move beyond traditional notions of fine art and gain a deeper understanding of this drawing's enduring appeal.