Four Studies of a Nude Child 1715 - 1781

Joseph François Parrocel's "Four Studies of a Nude Child" (1715-1781) is a black chalk drawing that depicts four child figures in various poses. The drawing is considered a study for a larger painting, possibly a religious scene, as the figures' poses and drapery suggest an interaction with a larger composition. The artist's loose, expressive lines highlight the anatomical form of the figures, showcasing Parrocel's keen observation of human anatomy. The drawing is currently housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York.