Barking Dog in Profile, study for "Falstaff Enlisting his Ragged Regiment..." c. 1806

Curator: This is Washington Allston's study, "Barking Dog in Profile," a graphite sketch intended for his painting of Falstaff. Editor: There's an immediate sense of tension in the dog's posture, that lean musculature poised for action. Curator: Allston's process reveals much. He isolates elements, here focusing on conveying the dog's alertness, its energy. He's carefully considering how this detail will contribute to the larger composition and its social commentary. Editor: The starkness of the graphite on this aged paper emphasizes the lean form of the dog. The lines, so precise, and the light and shadow at play create a remarkable sense of depth. Curator: Indeed. It's fascinating to consider how Allston translated such observations into the final painting, and what this study tells us about the labor involved in creating history paintings. Editor: I appreciate how the artist captured the essence of the dog's bark—a silent yet palpable sound. Curator: Allston's meticulous approach underscores the blending of observation and artistic intent. Editor: A great perspective on what drives Allston’s process.