Drie studies van een man, die door een kind aan de arm wordt getrokken

About this artwork

hoogte 151 mm x breedte 233 mm

Art Historical Context

Daniele da Volterra, a prominent Italian Mannerist artist active in the 16th (c. 1509–1566), is for his dynamic frescoes and sculptures, including Vatican commissions under Michelangelo's influence. This delicate drawing, *Drie studies van een, die door een kind de arm wordt getrokken (Three Studies of a Man Pulled by the Arm by a Child), showcases his skill in preparatory sketches. Rendered on paper and measuring just 151 mm high by 233 mm wide, it exemplifies the intimate scale of Renaissance studies used to refine poses for larger works. The composition features three variations of a tender yet energetic moment: an adult figure tugged insistently by a child, capturing movement and human interaction with Mannerist flair—elongated forms and expressive gestures that convey emotion and narrative tension. Da Volterra's precise line work and subtle shading on paper highlight his mastery of figure drawing, a cornerstone technique for artists of his era preparing frescoes or paintings. As a window into the artist's workshop process during Rome's vibrant High Renaissance-to-Mannerism transition, this piece underscores the era's emphasis on anatomical study and storytelling. It invites visitors to appreciate how such modest sketches birthed grand masterpieces, blending everyday pathos with artistic innovation.

About the Artist

Daniele da Volterra · 1509–1566

Highly talented and individual follower of Michelangelo; influential works include his fresco of the "Deposition" and a bust of Michelangelo made from his death mask. Ironically, he is famous for painting draperies over nudes in Michelangelo's "Last Judgement." Italian painter, muralist. Comment on works: History