Study for a Prophet
1570
chalk
paper
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
About the artist
1570
chalk
paper
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
Study for a Prophet is a 1570 chalk by Lattanzio Gambara, a Renaissance work, held at National Gallery of Art.
This sketch shows a nude figure lying down, arms bent behind their head. The body is drawn in quick, loose lines, with shading to show muscle and curves. The paper has a grid of small squares, and the edges look worn. The artist used black chalk with some white highlights to define shapes. This was likely a practice drawing for a larger work. Next, look up chiaroscuro to see how light and shadow create depth.
