Four Studies of Recumbent Female Nudes (Galatea) 1708 - 1718

"Four Studies of Recumbent Female Nudes (Galatea)" is a red chalk drawing on paper created by Carlo Maratti, a prominent Baroque artist, between 1708 and 1718. The drawing depicts various studies of female figures in various poses, with one prominent figure reclining in the foreground. The drawing is considered a study for a larger painting, possibly depicting the myth of Galatea, a sculpted woman brought to life by the god Pygmalion. This drawing provides a glimpse into Maratti’s creative process and demonstrates his masterful use of line and form. The piece is a great example of Italian Baroque figure drawing and is currently on display at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York.