Study of the Right Leg of a Male Child
Original title: Study of the Right Leg of a Male Child
kurzbeschreibung
Unlike many comparable leg or foot studies of the period, this sheet by Raphael (Raffaello Sanzio or Santi) presents the right leg of a male child in pure side view. Executed in pen and brown ink over black chalk and a stylus underdrawing, the drawing measures 21.1 × 21.9 cm and is conceived as an anatomical study.
Description
The thigh, calf, and foot of a male child are shown, with the foot turned slightly outward. The lateral pose of the subject is defined by carefully worked contours. Precise and detailed lines attest to close observation of anatomy. In the lower right of the sheet appears the signature 'L.S.V.'.
Context
This study presumably arose in the context of Raphael's numerous figure designs for paintings, which often include child figures. The exact dating is unknown; it falls within his Roman or Florentine period. Such preparations served larger compositions and demonstrate Raphael's interest in precisely capturing human body movement.
Impact
Quiet, precise lines lend the leg an almost sculptural plasticity. The interplay of delicate chalk and strong ink creates a lively tension between study and artwork. The small format underscores the intimate character of the sheet.
Technique
Pen and brown ink lie over an underdrawing of black chalk and stylus. This combination allowed Raphael first to sketch the basic forms and then to set fine, definitive contours with the pen. At 21.1 × 21.9 cm, the paper is relatively small, suggesting an intimate working study.
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Source: Metropolitan Museum of Art · Public Domain (CC0 1.0)