Artwork

Sketches of Heads and Hands

Sketches of Heads and Hands, by Pompeo Batoni, chalk, 1748
Sketches of Heads and Hands, by Pompeo Batoni, chalk, 1748

Sketches of Heads and Hands is a chalk drawing by the Baroque artist Pompeo Batoni. It dates from 1748 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Sketches of Heads and Hands is a drawing by Pompeo Batoni, created in 1748 using red and black chalks on prepared laid paper.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing comprises two studies: a hand resting on a knee, executed in black chalk, and a head turned slightly to one side, with red chalk used for the mouth and hair.

Technique & Style

The artist employed a limited color palette and rapid execution, resulting in loose, expressive studies. The hand study is particularly sketchy, suggesting a quick notation of forms.

Context

This drawing is associated with the Baroque style, characterized by dramatic and dynamic elements.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Pompeo Batoni

Artist

Pompeo Batoni

Pompeo Girolamo Batoni (25 January 1708 – 4 February 1787) was an Italian painter who displayed a solid technical knowledge in his portrait work and in his numerous allegorical and mythological pictures.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.

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Frequently asked questions

Who painted Sketches of Heads and Hands?

Sketches of Heads and Hands was painted by Pompeo Batoni in 1748.

Where can I see Sketches of Heads and Hands?

Sketches of Heads and Hands is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Sketches of Heads and Hands?

Sketches of Heads and Hands is associated with Baroque.

Can I buy a print of Sketches of Heads and Hands?

Museum-quality prints of Sketches of Heads and Hands are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.