Putto with Raised Arms 1580 - 1590

"Putto with Raised Arms" is a drawing by Italian artist Cristoforo Roncalli, dating from 1580 to 1590. This study, now housed at the Art Institute of Chicago, displays a young, nude figure with its arms raised above its head. Roncalli's drawing, rendered in charcoal and chalk, utilizes a grid to aid in precise anatomical representation. This technique, common among Renaissance artists, demonstrates an emphasis on realism and a commitment to meticulous observation. The grid serves as a visual guide for the artist, helping to achieve accurate proportions and composition. This type of drawing is referred to as a study, serving as preliminary work for larger, more finished pieces.