Study of a Young Child (Putto or Boy in Profile)
Drawing on paper • Attributed to the French or Italian School; in the manner of François Boucher or Carlo Maratti.
Style & Movement
Baroque/Rococo Academicism
Medium & Technique
Red chalk (sanguine) on laid paper; employs cross-hatching, stumping for soft shadows, and rhythmic linework for hair.
Creation Period
Late 17th to early 18th century (Late Baroque/Rococo period)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 30 x 22 cm; Portrait orientation
Subject Description
A profile study of a young boy or putto with curly hair. The composition focuses on the physiognomy of the face, using soft sanguine tones to model the flesh and more vigorous strokes for the hair.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Fair to Good; visible light staining and edge wear consistent with age.
Estimated Market Value
$1,500 - $3,500 USD
Auction Estimate
$1,200 - $2,500 USD
Provenance History
Unknown; likely from a private collection of Old Master drawings. No visible inventory marks or stamps are present on the face.
Art Historical Significance
A fine example of the 'Trois Crayons' or sanguine tradition utilized in European academies for anatomical and character studies.
Notable Features
Distinctive use of sanguine chalk common in 18th-century preparatory sketches; the handling of the curls shows high technical proficiency.
Condition Issues
Visible foxing (brown spots), mild paper yellowing, and possible slight fading from UV exposure. Some creasing near the edges.
Conservation Recommendations
Professional deacidification, mounting on acid-free backing, and reframing with UV-protective museum glass.