Study of a Male Nude (Althaemenes) in Despair 1763 - 1809

Nicolai Abraham Abildgaard’s “Study of a Male Nude (Althaemenes) in Despair” is a pen and brown wash drawing of a nude male figure, in a crouching position with a sense of despair. Created in 1763-1809, this work is a study for a larger painting and demonstrates Abildgaard’s mastery of anatomy and figure drawing. The artist’s interest in classical antiquity is evident in his use of a classical figure, Althaemenes, as the subject. This small-scale work is a testament to the artist’s dedication to the study of human form. The piece is housed at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City.