The Medici Wrestlers, side view, turned to right [plate 35]
1638
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
1638
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
The image depicts two nude male figures engaged in a wrestling match. The figure on the left is positioned on top of the other, with his right arm raised and his left arm wrapped around the opponent's waist. The figure on the right is on his knees, with his head turned to the right and his arms outstretched. In the background, there is a faint outline of a building with arches, suggesting a classical or ancient setting. The overall atmosphere of the image is one of tension and struggle, as the two figures are locked in a fierce competition. The etching technique used in this artwork adds a sense of depth and texture to the image, highlighting the muscular forms of the wrestlers. For more information on the technique used to create this artwork, look up etching.