Samson Slaying the Philistine, after Michelangelo (recto); Figure of Fury, after Rosso Fiorentino (verso) 1537 - 1591

Giovanni Battista Naldini created this drawing, "Samson Slaying the Philistine, after Michelangelo (recto); Figure of Fury, after Rosso Fiorentino (verso)," using red chalk. Immediately, one notices the bodies rendered in dynamic tension, filling almost the entirety of the paper. Naldini masterfully uses the red chalk to model the muscular forms, creating depth through variations in line thickness and density of hatching. The figures are entwined, locked in a struggle that transcends mere physicality, instead speaking to broader themes of power, conflict, and human potential. The composition is vertically oriented, emphasizing the towering figure of Samson and the prostrate form of his adversary. The choice of red chalk is not incidental; it imbues the scene with a sense of vitality and raw energy. The use of line and form creates a visual tension that underscores the thematic concerns. Ultimately, this drawing serves as a compelling example of how formal elements converge to create a powerful, enduring statement about the human condition.