Studies for 'The Reconciliation of the Montagues and the Capulets...': Drapery for Romeo

Drawing details

Title: Studies for 'The Reconciliation of the Montagues and the Capulets...': Drapery for Romeo
Date: c.1854
Media: Black chalk and bodycolour on paper
Dimensions: 44.0 x 57.5 cm
Location: Royal Academy of Arts, London
Picture credit: Royal Academy of Arts, London
Reference number: 04/499 verso

Interpretation

The fabric over Romeo is hardly seen in the final painting as it is painted in black and is obscured by the body of Juliet who lies across him. The second drapery study is not obviously for any drapery in the painting, but is probably an early idea for drapery for the same work.

Description

Upper half of sheet: drapery study for the fabric draped across the figure of Romeo in the painting 'The Reconciliation of the Montagues and Capulets...' (c.1853-55, private collection). Part of the legs and the shoulder of the figure are also roughly sketched in. Lower half of sheet: drapery study showing a length of fabric draped over an object and falling to the ground. 

Provenance

owned by Mrs Matthews and Mrs Sutherland Orr, Leighton's sisters