Charles Bargue Plates

Here, I present a “forgotten” technique that was popular in the late nineteenth century in academic training. The technique, or rather, training course, was designed by Charles Bargue, a French painter and lithographer (c. 1826/1827 – April 6, 1883). He is notably known for creating a course that would train artists in the traditional, classical atelier style of drawing. 

It is a common practice in traditional drawing and painting training to copy master drawings. This is meant to give students an understanding of drawing, technique, composition, and aesthetics. During the 20th century, this practice was looked down upon, because it seemed rigid and did not allow students to develop their own styles. However, nothing can be further from the truth. When interest in traditional drawing techniques returned and became more mainstream in artistic circles, people began revising the “forgotten” techniques. The reason I say “forgotten” in parenthesis, is because in some art schools throughout the world, these practices were kept and students, who dedicated themselves to this training have proven to gain a lot of experience and learn. Copying a drawing, or plates, doesn’t mean that you will be locked into a particular style or a way of doing drawing. Instead, you will gain techniques and insight into drawing that will be incorporated into your own, individual style. 

This is not a required assignment but is highly encouraged. 

Here’s the Charles Bargue plates pdf. 

Here’s a good video explaining how to use this technique.