Head of a Putto or Young Boy
Drawing on paper • Bolognese School; Circle of Annibale or Agostino Carracci
Style & Movement
Late Mannerism / Early Baroque (Bolognese Classicism)
Medium & Technique
Black chalk (or graphite) and possibly white chalk highlights on paper, utilizing SFUMATO for modeling and delicate cross-hatching for shadows.
Creation Period
Late 16th to early 17th Century (circa 1580-1620)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 15 x 12 cm; Portrait orientation
Subject Description
A character study (teste di carattere) of a child's head tilted downward in three-quarter view. The subject features curly hair and soft facial features typical of 'putti' found in grand historical or religious fresco cycles. The composition focuses on the psychological presence and the naturalistic play of light over the brow and cheek.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Fair to Good; shows typical signs of age-related degradation including minor foxing and surface dirt.
Estimated Market Value
$2,500 - $5,000 USD
Auction Estimate
$1,800 - $3,500 USD
Provenance History
Likely originated from a larger artist's sketchbook or 'zibaldone'. History suggests private European collections; lacks visible collector's marks in the provided image but stylistic lineage points to Northern Italian provenance.
Art Historical Significance
The Bolognese School, led by the Carracci family, revolutionized drawing by returning to nature and classical study. This piece is significant as a representative example of the pedagogical 'disegno' tradition which formed the foundation of the Baroque style.
Notable Features
Exquisite rendering of the ear and the rhythmic curls of the hair, which are hallmarks of the Bolognese academic style. The soft, rounded contours suggest a study intended for a religious figure such as the Christ Child or a cherub.
Condition Issues
Visible foxing (small brown spots), overall yellowing or 'toning' of the paper, minor creases at the edges, and slight fading of the finer chalk lines due to light exposure.
Conservation Recommendations
Professional cleaning by a paper conservator to stabilize foxing. Mount using acid-free materials and UV-protective museum glass. Store in a climate-controlled environment with low light levels.
Collector Notes
16th or early 17th c Bolognese School chalk and pencil drawing