Artwork

Man Reaching Down and Two Studies of Heads (recto)

Man Reaching Down and Two Studies of Heads (recto), by Jean-Baptiste Jouvenet, chalk, 1698
Man Reaching Down and Two Studies of Heads (recto), by Jean-Baptiste Jouvenet, chalk, 1698

Man Reaching Down and Two Studies of Heads (recto) is a chalk drawing by the Baroque artist Jean-Baptiste Jouvenet. It dates from 1698 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Man Reaching Down and Two Studies of Heads is a drawing created by Jean-Baptiste Jouvenet in 1698. It is executed in red and black chalks with white highlights on brown paper.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing comprises three sketches: a hand reaching upward with outstretched fingers, and two heads with flowing hair, one gazing upwards and the other turned to the side.

Technique & Style

Jouvenet employed a mix of red and black chalks, accentuating the faces with white highlights. The rapid, expressive lines convey a sense of urgency and spontaneity.

Context

This work is associated with the Baroque movement, characterized by dramatic and emotionally charged artworks.

Artist & collection

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