Studies of a Sower (Illustration for Thomson's _Seasons_) c. 1791

This is a pen and ink drawing by Thomas Stothard, a prominent British artist known for his illustrations and historical paintings. Executed in c. 1791, "Studies of a Sower" is a preparatory study for an illustration for James Thomson's poem "The Seasons". The drawing features multiple figures in various poses, likely intended to inform the final composition of the illustration. Stothard’s studies of the human figure are evident in the detailed anatomical rendering of each figure, showcasing his mastery of line and form, which is characteristic of his work. These types of studies were crucial in the development of narrative art in the 18th century.