Study of Venus at Rest c. 1602

"Study of Venus at Rest" is a preparatory drawing by Annibale Carracci created around 1602. The composition features the figure of Venus reclining, her pose and anatomy meticulously rendered in pen and ink, with additional washes of grey. The figure is depicted in a relaxed, sensual pose, suggesting the goddess's divine beauty and the artist's keen interest in classical art. The sketch is a testament to Carracci's mastery of drawing and his ability to capture the human form with precision and grace. This preparatory drawing exemplifies the artistic practices of the Bolognese School, where artists like Carracci sought to revive and reinterpret the ideals of classical antiquity. The work currently resides in the Städel Museum, Frankfurt am Main.