One is signed The other is not
Approximately 16 by 20 Approximately 16 by 24
Hello,
This appraisal concerns two original Old Master drawings, one of which is signed while the other remains unsigned. The drawings depict classical subjects, possibly inspired by Renaissance or Baroque portraiture, executed in a highly detailed and academic style. The medium appears to be graphite or charcoal on aged paper, showing signs of wear, including discoloration and foxing, consistent with artworks of considerable age.
Historical Context:
The tradition of Old Master drawings extends from the Renaissance through the 19th century, serving as preparatory studies for paintings, sculptures, or architectural designs. Drawings were fundamental to the training of artists, particularly in Italian, Dutch, and French schools. Figures such as Leonardo da Vinci, Peter Paul Rubens, and Charles Le Brun frequently produced similar works, emphasizing anatomy, classical proportions, and expressive character. The unsigned drawing might have been a workshop study or a copy produced for academic training, a common practice in art academies.