A Marble Horse on the Quirinal Hill c. 1513

This drawing of ‘A Marble Horse on the Quirinal Hill’ was made by Raphael around the year 1515, using red chalk. It depicts a monumental, antique sculpture – one that Raphael studied closely. What’s fascinating is Raphael’s emphasis on measurement. He wasn’t just trying to capture the overall impression of the statue. Instead, he meticulously marked out the proportions, using a series of lines and numbers. This reflects the period’s fascination with classical ideals of beauty, which were seen as rooted in mathematical harmony. The red chalk itself also has significance. It was a favored material for Renaissance artists, allowing for subtle gradations of tone and a warm, lifelike quality. But here, it’s also used almost like an engineer’s tool, to dissect and analyze the form. This close attention to structure and detail is typical of Raphael’s method, and reminds us that even the most graceful art is founded on careful observation and skillful technique.