The leading stag 1864

Rosa Bonheur made this drawing of a herd of deer with chalk and charcoal on paper. These are among the most ancient of art materials, literally taken from the earth. The chalk lends a velvety texture to the brown paper, while the charcoal brings contrast and definition, especially in the lead stag’s antlers. Bonheur’s skill in draftsmanship is evident, but so is her deep understanding of animal anatomy, gained through direct observation. She actually kept a menagerie on her property in rural France. The subject, too, speaks to Bonheur’s close connection with the natural world. In the 19th century, many artists turned to the countryside for inspiration, seeing it as an antidote to industrializing cities. But Bonheur went further, immersing herself in rural life. In doing so, she challenged the conventional hierarchy of art, placing direct experience above academic training. She reminds us that making is not just about skill, but also about a deep engagement with the world around us.