Oval with the portrait of a man wearing armour 1734 - 1736

Francesco Solimena made this study on paper with graphite, likely in preparation for a larger painting. The quick, repetitive strokes show him working out the composition, focusing on the sitter's pose and clothing, indicated by the armour. Graphite, a readily available material, allowed Solimena to experiment freely. This approach was crucial in developing ideas, before committing to more labor-intensive processes like painting in oil. Drawing served as a vital tool for planning and refining compositions. The texture of the paper and the varying pressure of the graphite create a sense of depth and volume, even in this preliminary sketch. The drawing allows us to see the artist's hand at work. It underscores that even seemingly effortless artworks are the result of thoughtful planning and skilled execution. Appreciating the role of materials and process helps us to understand the rich history of image-making, and the skilled labour that underpins it.