L'Ecorche and Borghese Gladiator 1887

This 1887 drawing by Vincent van Gogh, titled "L'Ecorche and Borghese Gladiator", demonstrates the artist's interest in anatomical studies. The composition features two figures, both rendered in a highly detailed and expressive manner. The main subject is a muscular, nude male figure, his back muscles prominent, likely based on a classical anatomical study, an "écorché". In the background, a second, smaller figure, possibly based on the "Borghese Gladiator" statue, is depicted from the side. This sketch exemplifies van Gogh's early style, characterized by his bold lines and expressive hatching.