Classical Female Figure; Satyr and Dog (from Sketchbook) 1857 - 1860

This sketchbook page was made with ink on paper by John Quincy Adams Ward in the 19th century. The graphic medium of ink on paper allows for detailed representations, focusing on line and form. Looking closely, you’ll notice the precision with which the artist captures the classical figures’ drapery and musculature. This level of detail suggests the artist was highly skilled. The choice of ink on paper, a relatively accessible medium, is interesting given the classical subject matter. It suggests a democratizing impulse, making classical ideals available through an everyday medium. The drawing reflects a time when artists sought inspiration from the past, reinterpreting classical themes through contemporary eyes. The emphasis on skill and craft also speaks to the values of the 19th century, where craftsmanship was highly esteemed. By considering materials, making, and context, we can appreciate how this drawing bridges historical and contemporary concerns, challenging the distinction between fine art and craft.