a) Si ils avaient vaincu (recto); b) Sketch of Si ils avaient vaincu (verso)

Jean-Louis Forain

National Gallery of Art

The image shows a sketch of five figures' upper bodies. The central figure on the right wears a uniform with a plumed helmet and has a broad mustache. To the left are four smaller figures, depicted with only their heads and shoulders. The facial features are detailed with shading to express various emotions. The figures are cloaked in loose garments, with some holding their heads in their hands. The background is minimalistic, with lightly sketched lines hinting at a vast, open space or distant structures. The sketch is in black ink on a beige surface, emphasizing the expressive nature of the figures.