Charge

Sir Robert Ker Porter

National Gallery of Art

This is a drawing of a cavalry charge scene. It depicts horses and riders galloping over rough terrain with spears held firmly as they advance. The horses are mid-leap, their bodies angled forward, mane and tail flowing in motion. The sketch details the animals' muscular structure and the garments of the riders. In the background, there are sketches suggesting chaos and motion, possibly indicating a battlefield environment. The monochrome use of line and shade gives the drawing a dynamic quality.