Horses with Groom (recto); Sketches of Peasant with Basket (verso) c. 1789 - 1843

This delicate drawing of horses and a groom, with sketches of a peasant on the reverse, was made by William Henry Pyne, likely in the early 19th century. It's rendered in graphite on paper, humble materials that speak to the work's function as a study rather than a finished piece. The thin, precise lines capture the anatomy of the horses, their musculature and stance, as well as the posture of the groom. The light touch of the graphite allows for subtle shading and a sense of movement, even in this quick sketch. Pyne’s choice of material also connects to the social context of artistic production at the time; graphite was becoming more widely available, reflecting the industrialization of art supplies and a growing market for drawings and prints. While seemingly simple, this work demonstrates the artist's skill in capturing form and movement with minimal means, bridging the gap between preparatory sketch and artwork in its own right. It reminds us that even the most unassuming materials can be imbued with artistic intention and skill.