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Character Sketch
Character Sketch

Character Sketch

Artist (Edinburgh, Scotland, 1839 - 1893)
Mediumpen ink and wash on paper
ClassificationsPaintings And Drawings
DimensionsSight Size: Height: 9.2 cm, Width: 14.8 cm
Frame: Height: 27 cm, Width: 32 cm
AcquisitionPurchased in 1980.
CopyrightOut of copyright - CC0
LocationView by Appointment - Aberdeen Treasure Hub
Object numberABDAG000511
Keywords
About MeIn this pen and ink sketch John Pettie has, with only minimal lines and shading, deftly captured the characters of various figures - an unimpressed looking lady in a carriage; a military gentlemen with a determined chin and over-fed, top-hatted businessmen.

Pettie specialised in dramatic historical subjects from the 16th, 17th and 18th centuries and held a particular admiration for the paintings of Rembrandt, Van Dyck and Rubens. The strong use of line in his oil paintings was related to his interest in the narrative aspects of human character and behaviour.
More About Me
Pettie specialised in historical subjects, admiring particularly the Dutch Masters. Here, the minimal use of lines and shading deftly catch the characters.