Two sketches of Figures on Horses 

Mark Rothko made these sketches of figures on horses, date unknown, using ink on paper. Rothko is best known for his later abstract work, but these sketches offer a fascinating insight into the artist's early development and the social context that shaped his artistic vision. These sketches, with their focus on figures and their environment, provide a glimpse into the artistic conventions and cultural values of the early 20th century. Rothko came to the US from Russia in 1913, and the directness of these sketches might reflect the influence of the Ashcan School, which focused on urban life in New York. These rapid sketches may also reflect Rothko's engagement with leftist politics. In both, the figures seem to be at odds with their surroundings, and perhaps Rothko wanted to reflect on the alienation of the individual in modern urban society. To understand the wider significance of Rothko's early work, scholars consult primary source materials such as letters, diaries, and exhibition catalogs. These can illuminate the social and cultural forces that shaped his artistic development, and shed light on the public role of art.