French or Italian school; 18th century.

French or Italian school; 18th century.
"Male Academy".
Graphite on paper.
Measurements: 39 x 23,5 cm.
The work is intended to be done in preparation for a finished piece, or as visual notes. Studies are often used to understand the problems involved in depicting subjects and to plan the elements to be used in finished works, such as light, color, form, perspective and composition. Studies can have more impact than more elaborately planned work because of the new insights the artist gains as he or she explores the subject matter. Such details help reveal the thought processes and techniques of many artists. Studies even date back to the early Italian Renaissance, from where art historians have kept some of Michelangelo's studies.