The Belvedere Torso [verso]

probably c. 1779/1780

William Blake

Associated Names
William Blake

Artist, British, 1757 - 1827

This is a drawing of a human leg and foot in sandals. The drawing is sketched lightly with graphite on paper, capturing a portion of a statue or figure with emphasis on a lifelike depiction of the lower leg and the foot which appears to be wearing a sandal. The composition is minimalist with soft outlines defining the contours and muscles of the leg and foot, rendered with subtle shading to suggest volume and texture. The background is left bare.

Media Options

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Artwork overview

  • Medium

    graphite on two joined sheets

  • Credit Line

    Rosenwald Collection

  • Dimensions

    overall: 42.8 x 34.3 cm (16 7/8 x 13 1/2 in.)

  • Accession Number

    1943.3.1721.b

  • Catalogue Raisonné

    Butlin 1981, no. 115, State verso

Associated Artworks

This is a drawing of several figures around a central, robed figure with arms raised. The central figure stands with a flowing robe and commanding posture. Surrounding figures look upwards, with arms extended. The figures are muscular and idealized with a minimalistic background. Light and shadow add depth to the scene, creating a dreamy atmosphere. The drawing captures a moment of significance, suggesting themes of leadership, divinity, or collective aspiration.

Moses Staying the Plague (?) [recto]

William Blake

1780

Artwork history & notes

Exhibition History

1996

  • William Blake, Fundación "la Caixa," Madrid; Fundació "la Caixa," Barcelona, 1996

Bibliography

1981

  • Butlin, Martin. The Paintings and Drawings of William Blake. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1981.

Wikidata ID

Q64636293

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