Standing Bearded Man Holding a Book 1530 - 1560

This 16th-century drawing by an anonymous artist depicts a standing bearded man holding a book. The drawing, which uses red and white chalk on a gray wash, features a simple yet striking composition that highlights the figure's form. The man's pose and the drapery of his clothing create a sense of movement and dynamism, while the book in his hand suggests a scholarly or intellectual pursuit. Created in the Italian Renaissance, the drawing is a beautiful example of the era's focus on realism and anatomical detail. This delicate and masterful piece can be viewed at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York.