Seated Man Reading 1774

Jean-Honoré Fragonard created this drawing of a seated man using a reddish-brown chalk called sanguine. Fragonard was a master of rococo, a style known for its ornate detail. But here, the rapid, sketch-like quality gives a sense of immediacy, a sensitivity for the everyday. Look closely at the hatch marks defining the man’s form, conveying volume with subtle shifts in pressure. It's clear that Fragonard wasn't interested in flawless rendering, but in capturing a momentary impression. The choice of sanguine itself is telling; its earthy tone lends a warmth and humanity, bringing the sitter to life. What distinguishes Fragonard’s drawing is the way it invites us into the studio, revealing the labor of artistic creation. By focusing on the qualities of material, we can begin to see the social dimension of Fragonard’s art.