Drawing for "La Colonne Trajane" (18th century, Met-Objekt 6183)
Original title: Drawing for "La Colonne Trajane"
kurzbeschreibung
Unlike many antique copies, this red chalk sheet by François Boucher from the 18th century presents two profiled heads that served as a preparatory study for Trajan's Column. The motif reflects Boucher's engagement with ancient reliefs and his work as a draftsman for engraving projects.
Description
Two profiled heads stand side by side: on the left, a head with short, wavy hair looking left; on the right, a head with long, wavy hair looking right. Fine hatching and lines model the faces and emphasize contours and structures. On the right head, a slight fold is visible at the edge of the forehead. The background remains empty, the paper has a cream tone, and the red chalk drawing is consistently in red-brown.
Context
The sheet was made in the 18th century when Boucher was working as a draftsman for the planned publication on Trajan's Column. He produced numerous studies after antique models as templates for copper engravings. Trajan's Column in Rome was regarded by Baroque and Rococo artists as a central reference work in their study of ancient art.
Impact
The reduced but precise lines create a calm, concentrated effect and draw the eye to the facial features. Through the red chalk technique, the heads acquire a warm, lively note that elegantly interprets the ancient model.
Technique
Executed in red chalk on paper, a medium typical for 18th-century study drawings. The hatching and lines are characteristic of Boucher's drawing technique, which models volume and shadow with targeted strokes.
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Source: Metropolitan Museum of Art · Public Domain (CC0 1.0)