Standing man donning an antique costume 1710 - 1780

Francesco La Marra made this drawing of a standing man in antique costume sometime in the 18th century. It is made using pen and brown ink on paper. The lines are economical and swift, indicating a confidence in La Marra's hand, and a mind that already knows what it wants to say. The texture of the paper is visible, and this rough materiality provides a visual contrast with the smooth, idealized form of the figure. Note how La Marra has used hatching techniques to add tone, volume, and depth. The man's clothing appears to be classical in style, though its rendering is more gestural than strictly representational. The sketch gives an impression of the way the fabric drapes and folds, accentuating the figure's pose. Drawings like this were functional for artists in the 1700s, a way to develop ideas, study forms, and prepare for larger paintings or sculptures. Thinking about the drawing in this way brings us closer to the working process of the artist, and the vital role of craft in fine art.