Provenance

Robert B. Loper

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The image shows the back view of a person's upper body from head to knees. The person is kneeling with their body slightly turned to the right, arms extended upward and hands joined. The individual has wavy, shoulder-length hair. The muscular structure of their back and arms is detailed. The person is wearing a draped garment covering the lower part of their torso and falling over one leg. There are no visible accessories or objects in their hands. The background is mostly blank, with minimal sketch lines suggesting a surface or ground.
Francesco Fontebasso, a) Study of a Man Kneeling, Looking Upward (recto); b) Studies of the Same Figure (verso), c. 1733, a) pen and brown ink on laid paper b) pen and brown ink on laid paper, Gift of Funds from Robert B. Loper, 2022.51.1.a-b

a) Study of a Man Kneeling, Looking Upward (recto); b) Studies of the Same Figure (verso)

Francesco Fontebasso · c. 1733 · a) pen and brown ink on laid paper b) pen and brown ink on laid paper ·  Accession ID  2022.51.1.a-b

This is a drawing depicting a historical scene. The composition includes numerous figures engaged in dynamic action across various levels within an architectural setting. The figures are stylized with muscular physiques, involved in a struggle or dramatic narrative. They are arranged in groups, some ascending steps, with a balcony above lined with more figures. The lower part of the drawing shows figures in seated or reclining positions, displaying expressions of distress or contemplation. The use of shading and line work accentuates the physicality and emotional intensity, while a detailed pattern on the floor establishes the scene's space.
Nicolas Beatrizet, The Massacre of the Innocents, 1540s(?), engraving on laid paper, Ailsa Mellon Bruce Fund and Purchased as the Gift of Robert B. Loper, 2014.57.1

The Massacre of the Innocents

Nicolas Beatrizet · 1540s(?) · engraving on laid paper ·  Accession ID  2014.57.1

This is a drawing of two figures in dynamic poses on an architecturally elaborate structure. The composition features two figures, one prominently positioned in the foreground with the back turned towards the viewer, appearing to be in motion as if ascending or descending the large scroll-like, ornamental structure. The other figure is partially visible, looking over their shoulder from behind the structure. The drawing utilizes soft and fluid pencil lines to convey movement and energy, as well as to define the figures' musculature and draped cloth. The background appears faint and less defined, with swirling lines suggesting fabric or a flowing element, emphasizing the sense of upward or swirling motion. The architectural elements featured in the drawing contribute to a sense of grandeur and complexity. The sketch composition suggests an expressive and potentially classical narrative theme, evoking a dynamic interaction between the figures and their surrounding environment.
Lorenzo De Ferrari, A Female Figure Seated on an Entablature, Holding a Distaff, c. 1700/1710, black chalk on laid paper, Purchased as the Gift of Robert B. Loper, 2019.78.1

A Female Figure Seated on an Entablature, Holding a Distaff

Lorenzo De Ferrari · c. 1700/1710 · black chalk on laid paper ·  Accession ID  2019.78.1

This is a drawing of a scene with many figures engaged in various activities. The artwork shows a group of people around large barrels, with individuals either working on them or inspecting their contents. Some figures are on horses, while others interact directly. The scene is set in front of a stone wall, with clouds in the sky. The composition is detailed, conveying a sense of organized chaos in a busy gathering. The line work, expressions, and postures give the piece a dynamic quality, capturing a moment of collective human effort and interaction.
Salvator Rosa, The Death of Atilius Regulus, c. 1662, etching with drypoint on laid paper, Purchased as the Gift of Robert B. Loper, 2016.149.1

The Death of Atilius Regulus

Salvator Rosa · c. 1662 · etching with drypoint on laid paper ·  Accession ID  2016.149.1

The image depicts a classical artwork with various figures. In the foreground, a seated woman is reaching towards a small child standing before her, while a kneeling man is beside them. Surrounding them are winged cherubs floating on clouds. In the background, faint outlines of architectural elements are visible.
Giacinto Gimignani, The Holy Family with Saint Philip Neri in Adoration, an Angel, and Putti, 1649, etching on laid paper, Ailsa Mellon Bruce Fund and Purchased as the Gift of Robert B. Loper, 2019.129.2

The Holy Family with Saint Philip Neri in Adoration, an Angel, and Putti

Giacinto Gimignani · 1649 · etching on laid paper ·  Accession ID  2019.129.2

The image shows a male figure reclining against a rock, looking towards the viewer. He has curly hair and a beard, deep-set eyes, and a strong nose. The man's muscular body is mostly uncovered, with a cloth around his lower hips and legs. In the foreground, there is a staff with an item on a rock. The background features fine lines indicating a natural setting.
Battista Franco, Saint John the Baptist, 1550s, etching with engraving on laid paper, laid down on blue paper, Purchased as the Gift of Robert B. Loper, 2016.18.1

Saint John the Baptist

Battista Franco · 1550s · etching with engraving on laid paper, laid down on blue paper ·  Accession ID  2016.18.1

This is a drawing of a pastoral scene with classical sculptures and figures. The drawing features an arrangement of classical elements, including a statue on a pedestal in a wooded setting, flanked by large urns and surrounded by draped figures in leisurely poses. Dense foliage frames the composition, providing a sense of depth and a natural backdrop. The chiaroscuro effect highlights the intricate details of the figures and objects such as the ornate designs on the urns and the textured bark of the trees. The style is reminiscent of classical pastoral themes, focusing on relaxation and the eternal beauty of ancient forms.
Giovanni Benedetto Castiglione, Pan Reclining before a Herm, c. 1640-1645, etching on laid paper, Ailsa Mellon Bruce Fund and Purchased as the Gift of Robert B. Loper, 2012.148.1

Pan Reclining before a Herm

Giovanni Benedetto Castiglione · c. 1640-1645 · etching on laid paper ·  Accession ID  2012.148.1

The image shows three adult figures and one child. The central adult figure, shown from the waist up, is seated and holding a child in her arms. She is positioned slightly to the right and appears to be looking down at the child. Her facial features are soft, with a serene expression, and she has wavy hair partially covered by a cloth, with a halo above her head. She is draped in flowing garments. The child she holds is nude, with curly hair, and sits on her lap. To the lower left, a small winged cherub is shown standing, holding a slender object. To the right of the central figure, an older man with curly hair and a beard sits, shown from the waist up, with his head resting on his hand. Another figure is partially visible on the far left, shrouded in drapery. The background features a draped curtain creating an intimate setting, with a glimpse of architectural elements to the right.
Orazio de Santis, Holy Family with Saint Elizabeth and the Young John the Baptist, 1568, engraving on laid paper, Purchased as the Gift of Robert B. Loper, 2015.13.1

Holy Family with Saint Elizabeth and the Young John the Baptist

Orazio de Santis · 1568 · engraving on laid paper ·  Accession ID  2015.13.1

This is a drawing of figures in a celestial scene. The scene depicts various draped and winged figures. The central figure is seated on a cloud, surrounded by accompanying figures, possibly angels, indicated by their wings. Soft wisps and swirls around the figures imply clouds. The use of light and shadow gives a sense of depth and movement. The soft lines and subtle color washes contribute to the dreamlike quality of the composition.
Domenico Mondo, Franz Anton Maulbertsch, Virgin of the Immaculate Conception, c. 1760/1770, pen and brown ink with gray and brown washes over red chalk on laid paper, Gift of Robert B.Loper, 2021.44.1

Virgin of the Immaculate Conception

Domenico Mondo, Franz Anton Maulbertsch · c. 1760/1770 · pen and brown ink with gray and brown washes over red chalk on laid paper ·  Accession ID  2021.44.1

The sketch features several figures. In the center, a bearded man with a raised arm is depicted. He is seated on a draped surface. Surrounding him are other figures, including a woman reaching out with one arm and another figure partially kneeling. The sketch is rendered in simple lines on plain, aged paper.
Francesco Mancini, The Immaculate Conception with God the Father and Angels, 1739, black and white chalks on gray-green laid paper, Purchased as the Gift of Robert B. Loper, 2017.88.1

The Immaculate Conception with God the Father and Angels

Francesco Mancini · 1739 · black and white chalks on gray-green laid paper ·  Accession ID  2017.88.1