Study of a Male Figure

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Drawing details

Title: Study of a Male Figure
Date: c.1845-50
Media: Pencil and chalk on paper
Dimensions: 30.5 x 21.5 cm
Location: Bankfield Museum, Halifax
Picture credit: Calderdale Museum and Arts
Reference number: 1941.18/53
Inscriptions: Inscribed lower centre "Lord Leighton PRA" in pencil.

Interpretation

This drawing may be related to Leighton's painting 'Cimabue Finding Giotto in the Fields of Florence' (c.1848-50, Baroda Museum and Picture Gallery, India). The young man depicted is similar in appearance to the standing male figure to the left of the painting. The figure in the painting holds a sketchbook under one arm and is dressed virtually identically.

Description

Full-length study of a kneeling male figure, in profile, facing to the right. He kneels on the right knee and supports himself with the left foot. A large sketchbook or drawing board rests on the left leg. The right hand is sketching. The face is turned away from the viewer and looks up. The figure is in medieval dress, and wears tights, a tunic and a cap. 

Provenance

Private collection; bequeathed to Bankfield Museum, Halifax by private owner in 1941