Study of Arms for "The Cadence of Autumn"

Art Historical Context

This preparatory drawing by Evelyn De Morgan captures a study of arms and hands created in 190 as part of her planning the larger painting * Cadence of Autumn*. Rendered in graphite and pastel on brown paper, the work highlights the artist’s careful attention to anatomical detail and gesture, qualities that would contribute to the finished composition’s sense of rhythm and movement. The choice of medium is particularly effective here. Graphite provides crisp, precise lines for outlining forms, while pastel adds soft tonal shading and subtle color notes against the warm brown paper, which serves as a natural mid-tone. Such studies allowed De Morgan to refine the positioning and lighting of figures before committing to canvas. Acquired by the Metropolitan Museum of Art in 2018 through the Elisha Whittelsey Fund, this sheet offers visitors a rare glimpse into the artist’s working process and her dedication to expressive human form.