Lion's Head from the Capitoline Staircase

About this work

This sketch shows just the head of a lion, drawn in loose, quick lines. The fur looks rough and textured, with shading around the eyes and muzzle. The paper has a warm, yellowish tone, and the drawing is signed in small writing at the bottom. The artist focused on the lion’s strong jaw and deep-set eyes, giving it a wild but calm look. The sketch was likely made from a real lion statue—maybe one in a grand building. Next, look up Pajou, Augustin to see more of his animal drawings.