Porphyry Head (San Marco, Venice) by Giuseppe Grisoni

Porphyry Head (San Marco, Venice) n.d.

drawing, print, gouache, paper, ink, inorganic-material, chalk, black-chalk

pencil drawn

drawing

toned paper

light pencil work

print

gouache

pencil sketch

paper

ink

pencil drawing

inorganic-material

coloured pencil

chalk

water

watercolour bleed

pencil work

watercolour illustration

black-chalk

watercolor

Giuseppe Grisoni’s “Porphyry Head (San Marco, Venice)” is a red chalk drawing depicting a profile view of a sculpted head, possibly an ancient Roman bust. The head is wearing a crown adorned with jewels and appears to be made of porphyry, a type of igneous rock. The drawing's precise date is unknown. Grisoni was an Italian artist known for his drawings and etchings, particularly of architectural subjects. This piece highlights his keen eye for detail and his interest in classical sculpture. The drawing, now in the collection of The Art Institute of Chicago, is a testament to the enduring fascination with ancient art and its influence on artists throughout history.