Two Putti Supporting the Lower Part of a Draped Figure (recto); Two Putti (verso) 1720 - 1808

Jacopo Guarana made this drawing of putti and drapery with chalk on blue paper, sometime in the 18th century. The softness of chalk is ideal for capturing the pliant forms of the babies and the heavy fabric. Look closely, and you can see how Guarana varies his touch to differentiate the textures. Light strokes build up the delicate wings, while bolder, smudged areas convey the weight of the drapery. The blue paper isn’t just a backdrop; it actively contributes to the image. The artist uses the paper's tone to create a sense of depth and atmosphere, allowing the chalk to define the highlights and shadows. Drawings like this were often studies for larger paintings or frescoes. In Guarana’s time, the art world operated on a strict hierarchy, where preparatory drawings like this one were seen as less significant than a finished painting. But in fact, this drawing shows the artist's skill and creative process, and it’s a beautiful object in its own right. It invites us to consider the value of works on paper, not just as means to an end, but as important artistic expressions.