Stehender Soldat in Rückenansicht c. 1723

Charles Parrocel created "Stehender Soldat in Rückenansicht" with graphite, presenting a soldier from the rear. The drawing emphasizes the soldier's posture and gear through careful shading and line work. Parrocel masterfully uses hatching to define the planes of the soldier's body and clothing. Notice how the textures vary from the smooth tunic to the patterned kilt and the rougher surface of the soldier's weaponry. The composition is structured around the central figure, whose back faces us, creating a sense of distance. The rifle slung across his back acts as a diagonal element, breaking the verticality of the figure and adding dynamism. The drawing engages with themes of military identity and representation, reflecting Parrocel’s broader interest in depicting scenes of warfare. It invites viewers to consider the role of the individual within the larger structure of military power, highlighting how formal elements such as posture and equipment contribute to the construction of this identity. The study prompts ongoing dialogue about the representation and interpretation of military subjects in art.