Studies for ‘Hercules at the Crossroads’ and for the ‘Nativity’ c. 1748

Pompeo Batoni's "Studies for ‘Hercules at the Crossroads’ and for the ‘Nativity’" from c. 1748 is a red chalk drawing featuring four studies of figures. The first study is a seated woman with a child on her lap, likely intended for the Nativity. The second shows a female figure standing with outstretched arm and a third seated figure, presumably for the Hercules painting. The last figure appears to be a study for drapery. Batoni's preparatory sketches highlight his mastery of form and composition, providing insights into his artistic process. These studies, executed in red chalk on paper, showcase the artist's meticulous attention to detail and anatomical accuracy, characteristic of his neoclassical style.