(From Sketchbook) 1810 - 1820

This is a sketch by Thomas Sully, created with pen and ink on paper. It is one of many studies found in the artist's sketchbooks. You might easily overlook a drawing like this, seeing it as a simple preliminary exercise. But consider the material reality of pen and ink. Unlike a pencil, which can be erased and reworked, ink leaves a permanent mark. It demands a certain commitment and confidence. You can see Sully working through ideas, capturing the dynamic energy of figures on horseback, and the drama of battle. Look closely and you'll notice the layering of lines, the artist's hand moving quickly to capture the essence of form and movement. The stark contrast between the dark ink and the light paper adds to the immediacy of the sketch, as the fluid, dark lines vividly stand out against the white backdrop. Sully’s mastery is evident in his ability to create a sense of depth and volume with minimal strokes, conveying a sense of weight and movement. So, the next time you see a sketch, remember it’s not just a preliminary exercise, but the result of skill, intention, and a deep understanding of the materials.