Preparatory sketch showing lovers on a terrace

Note the tiny holes on all outlines in this sketch. They indicate the use of image transfer using the “prick and pounce” method, where the design intended for replication is drawn on paper (as in this example, or on thin animal skin) and its outlines pricked with tiny holes. It is then placed on a fresh sheet of paper, and fine charcoal dust held in a mesh cloth bag is rubbed over the holes to transfer the design’s outlines as small dots. The dots are connected into a smooth line with a brush, and colors and details added to complete the painting. The back of this drawing is darkened, suggesting that it had been used as a template by the studio’s artists.