What is a chalk figure sketch?

A chalk figure sketch is an original work on paper utilising chalk, charcoal, or sanguine to depict the human body. These range from rapid preparatory life studies to finished portrait drawings. Such pieces provide direct evidence of an artist's technique and composition methods, preserved through centuries across French, Italian, and British artistic traditions.

How should I frame a chalk drawing?

Framing requires conservation-grade materials that keep the paper from touching the glass directly. Because chalk and pastel particles remain loose on the surface, any pressure from the glazing can damage the medium. Utilising spacers and acid-free mounts protects the delicate drawing materials while allowing the historic paper to breathe safely within its frame.

How do I identify the period of a sketch?

Dating relies on stylistic markers, paper watermarks, and the clothing or hairstyle of the depicted figure. Handwriting on the mount or reverse often records attribution or historical context. Comparing the handling of media, such as the use of red chalk in eighteenth-century French works versus charcoal in later pieces, helps narrow the timeframe.

Can drawings be displayed in sunlight?

Exposing works on paper to direct sunlight causes fading in chalk, charcoal, and tinted paper supports. Natural and artificial UV rays degrade both the paper fibres and the dry media over time. Displaying these pieces away from direct windows and utilising UV-filtered glass ensures the longevity of the sketch in a home environment.

Home > Chalk Figure Sketch > Page 2

Chalk Figure Sketch

20 items · page 2 of 2

← Page 2 of 2 →

A chalk figure sketch captures the immediacy of the human form through dry media on paper, offering direct insight into an artist's working method.

Lost in Thought, Woman Daydreaming, Ca 1870 French Antique Graphite and Chalk Drawing

19th century

Save

Lost in Thought, Woman Daydreaming, Ca 1870 French Antique Graphite and Chalk Drawing

From Skippings Fine Arts

£400

3+ MONTHS AGO

art

Painting "Reclining Nude" by Frank Dobson (1886-1963)

1940 - 1960

Save

Painting "Reclining Nude" by Frank Dobson (1886-1963)

From AJD Antiques

£1,900

3+ MONTHS AGO

art

The Exotic Dancer - Postmistress: Art Deco Period Circa 1930 Coloured Drawing by Northampton Artist Henry Bird, Lovely Provenance

1920 - 1940

Save

The Exotic Dancer - Postmistress: Art Deco Period Circa 1930 Coloured Drawing by Northampton Artist Henry Bird, Lovely Provenance

From Skippings Fine Arts

£320

3+ MONTHS AGO

art

George Richmond, Ra, 1809 - 1896
Portrait of William Page Wood, 1st Baron Hatherley 1801-1881, Lord Chancellor

19th century

Save

George Richmond, Ra, 1809 - 1896 Portrait of William Page Wood, 1st Baron Hatherley 1801-1881, Lord Chancellor

From Artware Fineart

£2,500

3+ MONTHS AGO

art

← 1 2 →

65,511

Antiques For Sale

Antiques Approved Today

4,027

Antique Uploads This Month

440,700

Total Antiques Sold

Chalk Figure Sketch

Lost in Thought, Woman Daydreaming, Ca 1870 French Antique Graphite and Chalk Drawing

Painting "Reclining Nude" by Frank Dobson (1886-1963)

The Exotic Dancer - Postmistress: Art Deco Period Circa 1930 Coloured Drawing by Northampton Artist Henry Bird, Lovely Provenance

George Richmond, Ra, 1809 - 1896 Portrait of William Page Wood, 1st Baron Hatherley 1801-1881, Lord Chancellor

Add keywords to the filter

Price

Era

Period

Style

Material

Origin

Stock Location

Recently Added

Online Payments

Categories