Study of a Child's Head (Putto or Christ Child)
Old Master Drawing on paper, mounted and framed • Bolognese School; Circle of the Carracci (Annibale or Ludovico) or Guido Reni
Style & Movement
Bolognese Baroque (Emilian School); Classicism
Medium & Technique
Black chalk (or charcoal) and white chalk heightening on blue paper (carta azzurra), a technique common in Northern Italy and Bologna
Creation Period
Early 17th Century (circa 1600-1630)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 25 x 18 cm (sight); Vertical Portrait format in a Tabernacle style frame
Subject Description
A sensitive head study of a young child, likely a putto or the Christ Child, seen in three-quarter profile looking downward. The work emphasizes soft anatomical modeling and the play of light on curly hair.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good/Fair; stable but showing signs of historical aging consistent with early 17th-century works on paper
Estimated Market Value
$5,000 - $8,000 USD
Auction Estimate
$3,000 - $5,000 USD
Provenance History
Private collection; stylistic evidence suggests an origin in a Bolognese workshop as a preparatory study for a larger religious or mythological composition
Art Historical Significance
Represents the academic rigor and naturalism of the Bolognese school which revitalized Italian art through life drawing and the 'reforms' of the Carracci family.
Notable Features
The use of 'carta azzurra' is a hallmark of the period; the high-quality Tabernacle-style architectural frame with gilded rosettes and columns enhances its presentation value.
Condition Issues
Visible vertical creasing/folding near the left edge; light foxing and minor discoloration of the blue paper (typical fading of indigo dye); possible edge abrasions under the mat.
Conservation Recommendations
Ensure the use of UV-protective museum glass; monitor for humidity to prevent further foxing; avoid direct sunlight to preserve the fugitive blue pigment of the paper.
Collector Notes
Early 17th century bolognese school Pencil and white chalk drawing