Sheet of Studies after 1798

John Flaxman made this sheet of studies with graphite on paper sometime in the late 18th or early 19th century. Flaxman was an English sculptor and designer, and this sheet gives us a glimpse into the artistic process of the time. The cultural references in the drawing are worth noting. The delicate, linear style evokes the Neoclassical movement, which looked back to ancient Greek and Roman art for inspiration. At the time, the Royal Academy in London promoted a similar style, so Flaxman's work was aligned with the artistic establishment. However, the sheet also contains quick sketches, suggesting a more experimental and personal side to his practice. To better understand Flaxman's work, scholars might consult exhibition catalogs, letters, and other archival documents. These sources can provide valuable insights into the social and institutional context in which art was made and consumed. Ultimately, art history helps us understand the meaning of art as something shaped by its historical moment.