Sheet of Studies with a Soldier Drawing a Sword, a Crucifix, Monstrous Animals, and Other Figures

Neapolitan 17th Century

Associated Names
This is a drawing of various abstract figures and elements, including a crucifixion, a demon-like figure, and multiple human forms. The full description of the artwork includes a loosely sketched crucifixion scene in the upper left corner. In the center, a muscular figure wearing a helmet and holding a spear stands prominently. To the upper right, a figure with horned features appears suspended or floating, its body abstract and elongated. Below this, a large, expressive face with exaggerated features stares to the left. In the bottom center, several smaller human forms are seen in various stances, holding sticks or spears. The entire drawing is composed with free-flowing lines and appears to explore dynamic poses and interactions.

Media Options

This object’s media is free and in the public domain. Read our full Open Access policy for images.

Artwork overview

  • Medium

    pen and brown ink on laid paper

  • Credit Line

    Joseph F. McCrindle Collection

  • Dimensions

    sheet: 13.8 x 13.3 cm (5 7/16 x 5 1/4 in.), all corners cut
    mount: 15.5 x 18.1 cm (6 1/8 x 7 1/8 in.)

  • Accession Number

    2009.70.172


Artwork history & notes

Provenance

Aubrey Beese. (Thomas Agnew & Sons, Ltd., London, by 1975). Joseph F. McCrindle [1923-2008], New York; Joseph F. McCrindle Foundation, 2008; gift to NGA, 2009.

Associated Names

Exhibition History

1975

  • Master Drawings and Prints, Thos. Agnew & Sons Ltd., London, 1975, no. 21 (as Pier Franceso Mola).

Bibliography

2012

  • Grasselli, Margaret M., and Arthur K. Wheelock, Jr., eds. The McCrindle Gift: A Distinguished Collection of Drawings and Watercolors. Exh. cat. National Gallery of Art. Washington, 2012: 181 (color).

Inscriptions

by later hand, upper center verso in graphite: 3711 A

Wikidata ID

Q64618160

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