LACMA Collections Online - French Oil Sketches

Sketches in oil paint made in France during the 16th-19th century may appear rough and unfinished in their traditional, formal surroundings.

French artists never expected their sketches to be on public view. They were quickly executed for their own reference in the studio, or as projects for larger paintings, works in progress or personal notations.

Museum curators and scholars often categorize oil sketches by using a French or Italian word that denotes the function of the painting.

Learn about LACMA’s French Oil Sketch paintings by exploring these 5 interactive modules.

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