Male Nude with a Staff (Study for a larger composition)
Drawing on paper • Circle of or Manner of Peter Paul Rubens (likely Flemish or Italian school follower)
Style & Movement
Baroque
Medium & Technique
Red chalk (sanguine) on laid paper with cross-hatching and stumping for tonal modeling
Creation Period
Early to mid-17th Century (c. 1600-1650)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 40 x 28 cm; vertical portrait format
Subject Description
A muscular male figure in a dynamic crouched pose, holding a staff. The figure looks intensely toward the left with a furrowed brow. The musculature is highly stylized and anatomical, characteristic of the 'heroic' Baroque style influenced by Michelangelo and the Carracci. The figure may represent a biblical or mythological character, perhaps a shepherd or a participant in a larger historical scene.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Fair to Good; visible foxing and surface staining throughout.
Estimated Market Value
$5,000 - $12,000 USD
Auction Estimate
$4,000 - $8,000 USD
Provenance History
Unknown, likely from a European private collection or 'Old Master' drawing album; no visible stamps or signatures present on the recto.
Art Historical Significance
The work reflects the rigorous academic training of the 17th century, emphasizing the study of 'disegno' and human anatomy. Its significance lies in its relationship to the workshop practices of major Baroque masters, representing the transmission of stylistic tropes from Flanders to Italy.
Notable Features
Excellent anatomical definition in the torso and limbs; the use of red chalk is particularly well-handled in the hair and facial expression, exhibiting a high degree of technical skill typical of professional workshop assistants.
Condition Issues
Extensive foxing (small brown spots), overall yellowing/acidification of paper, minor creases at the edges, and significant staining in the lower left and upper right quadrants.
Conservation Recommendations
Requires deacidification and foxing treatment by a paper conservator. Should be mounted using acid-free materials and protected behind UV-filtering glass. Keep in a climate-controlled environment with low light levels.