Five Half-Length Female Figures, One at a Spinet (from Sketchbook) 1810 - 1820

This page of pen and ink sketches was made by Thomas Sully, probably in the early 19th century. Sully was an accomplished painter, especially of portraits, and drawings like these gave him the chance to quickly capture the essence of a pose. The medium of pen and ink is a direct one, allowing for spontaneity and revision, while the paper is thin and absorbent. Note how the ink bleeds slightly, creating a soft halo effect that adds depth to the figures. The rapid, sketchy quality suggests that Sully was less concerned with finished details than with the overall composition. The quick strokes emphasize the fleeting nature of observation, a perfect medium for capturing the postures of women in domestic settings. The focus here seems to be less on the specific identities of the sitters, than on their performance of leisure – playing music, caring for children. This was a potent image for the time, laden with social meaning. Ultimately, by focusing on the process, we gain a better appreciation of the artist's working method, and can also appreciate the cultural values that he and his patrons shared.