Artwork

A boy writing or drawing, seated on a fallen column before a ruined niche containing a sculptured figure of a woman

A boy writing or drawing, seated on a fallen column before a ruined niche containing a sculptured figure of a woman is a drawing by Gennaro Landi. It dates from 1750 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

Overview

This drawing by Gennaro Landi depicts a boy seated amidst ancient ruins, engaged in creative activity.

Subject & Meaning

The boy, absorbed in writing or drawing, is surrounded by remnants of the past, including a damaged column and a weathered statue of a woman in a niche.

Technique & Style

Landi's use of quick, sketchy lines conveys a sense of light and shadow, while his hatching technique builds texture and depth in the composition.

History & Provenance

Dated to 1750, the drawing originated from an unidentified Italian collection (Lugt 2099) before being acquired in 1880.

Artist & collection

Artist

Gennaro Landi

Gennaro Landi spent his days wandering Rome’s crumbling piazzas, sketching whatever caught his eye—crumbling walls, stray cats, the old men playing chess in the shadows.