The Emperor Aulus Vitellius

Farinati employs swift, sketchy lines that convey the figure’s pose with immediacy, reminiscent of a study rather than a finished portrait. The use of brown ink and washes creates depth, while the white highlights over black chalk intensify the contrast, revealing muscular definition and shadowed contours typical of Mannerist draftsmanship.

Created in 1568, the drawing reflects Farinati’s activity across Verona, Mantua, and Venice during the latter half of the sixteenth century. It remains a representative example of his work in drawing, illustrating his engagement with classical subjects and his skill in handling ink and wash techniques.