Study c. 1686

Giuseppe Bartolomeo Chiari’s "Study" (c. 1686) is a preparatory drawing, a preliminary sketch for a larger painting. The artist uses a light touch to depict a crowded scene likely representing a biblical event. The loose, gestural lines are typical of preparatory drawings, creating a sense of immediacy and fluidity. The composition is dynamic, with figures arranged in a swirling, diagonal movement. This artwork from the Art Institute of Chicago offers a glimpse into the artistic process of the Baroque era, showcasing the artist's skill in planning a large-scale composition.