Study for "Greek Girls Bathing" c. 1872

Elihu Vedder's "Study for 'Greek Girls Bathing'" (c. 1872) is a pencil and chalk drawing depicting a single female figure draped in flowing fabric. This preparatory study captures the movement and form of a figure that would later be included in the artist's larger oil painting "Greek Girls Bathing." The delicate lines and shading of the drawing highlight the drapery, creating a sense of ethereal beauty. The use of red chalk on a purple background further emphasizes the figure's form and movement. The drawing's intimate scale and detailed execution reveal Vedder's meticulous approach to his art.