Figures at an Altar or Classical Sacrifice n.d.

This preparatory drawing, "Figures at an Altar or Classical Sacrifice", by Paolo Pagani, illustrates a scene of classical sacrifice. The drawing captures the dynamic poses and drapery of the figures as they perform the ritual. Pagani's loose and expressive lines create a sense of movement and energy, characteristic of his quick, preparatory sketches. The drawing is a reminder of the creative process that precedes the finished painting, revealing the artist's initial ideas and compositional choices. The piece is housed at The Art Institute of Chicago.