Who painted A Gentleman with a Walking Stick?

A Gentleman with a Walking Stick was painted by Giovanni Battista Piranesi in 1754.

Where can I see A Gentleman with a Walking Stick?

A Gentleman with a Walking Stick is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is A Gentleman with a Walking Stick?

A Gentleman with a Walking Stick is associated with Romanticism.

Artwork

A Gentleman with a Walking Stick

Giovanni Battista Piranesi , 1754

A Gentleman with a Walking Stick is a chalk drawing by the Romanticist artist Giovanni Battista Piranesi. It dates from 1754 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

A Gentleman with a Walking Stick is a drawing created by Giovanni Battista Piranesi around 1754. It is executed in black chalk on laid paper.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts a gentleman in 18th-century attire, standing with his right leg crossed over his left and holding a walking stick. His posture and clothing convey elegance and refinement.

Technique & Style

Piranesi's use of black chalk creates a sense of depth and texture, while chiaroscuro – the contrast between light and dark – adds volume and drama to the figure.

Context

Piranesi was known for his etchings of Rome and imaginary prisons, but this drawing showcases his skill with chalk and his interest in capturing contemporary figures.

Artist & collection

Artist

Giovanni Battista Piranesi

Giovanni Battista (or Giambattista) Piranesi (Italian pronunciation: ; also known as simply Piranesi; 4 October 1720 – 9 November 1778) was an Italian classical archaeologist, architect, and artist, famous for his…