The problem of "stages" in the development of artistic ability is addressed by reviewing the cases of a gifted autistic child, Nadia, who drew realistically at a very young age, and of a normal child, Eytan, who rapidly taught himself the principles of isometric perspective and of foreshortening. A review of scholarly opinion about Nadia's remarkably realistic drawings leads to the conclusion that the child probably did not skip over the early stages of drawing development, but passed through them very rapidly. Close attention to drawings Nadia made when she was between 3 years and 6 or 7 years of age reveal increasing sophistication in the ability to depict her favorite subject, although some childish schematic remnants are still visible. In other words, Nadia's ability developed. The case of Eytan is briefly discussed to support this view. Eytan's early drawing development suggests that in some uniquely gifted children with a special interest in naturalistic depiction, the developmental process can be greatly accelerated. It is concluded that evidence of a precocious talent should not be confused with pathology. (RH)