Figures Surrounding a Man Lying on the Ground; verso: A Group of Figures 1700 - 1800

This anonymous 18th-century drawing, "Figures Surrounding a Man Lying on the Ground," showcases a group of figures gathered around a man lying on the ground. Executed in a loose, expressive style, the artist captures a dramatic moment. The figures are rendered with a sense of movement and emotion, suggesting a story of action and reaction. The drawing is characterized by its use of gestural lines and subtle shading, effectively conveying the figures' postures and expressions. This work exemplifies the artistic practice of sketching during the Baroque period, where artists often used drawings as preparatory studies for larger paintings.