Half-Length Sketch of a Gentleman Wearing Hat and Cape

Art Historical Context

Behold the *Half-Length Sketch of a Wearing Hat and Cape*, delicate preparatory drawing by Bartolomeo Passarotti (3–1693), a prominent Bolognese artist of the 17th century Active in Bologna, Passarotti trained under Guercino and to the vibrant Carracci-influenced school, blending portraiture with genre scenes. This undated work captures a stylish gentleman in profile, his hat and flowing cape evoking the elegance of Baroque-era fashion and the everyday nobility of Italian society. Executed in pen and brown ink on tan laid paper—then laid down on ivory laid paper for preservation—the sketch showcases Passarotti's masterful line work. His fluid, confident strokes define contours, folds, and textures with economical precision, a hallmark of 17th-century Italian draughtsmanship. At just 17.3 × 14.2 cm, its intimate scale invites close viewing, highlighting the tactile quality of ink on laid paper, which bears the subtle weave of its historical production. Housed in the Art Institute of Chicago's Prints and Drawings department, this piece exemplifies the artist's skill in rapid, expressive studies, likely used for painting or print preparation. It offers a window into Baroque draftsmanship, where such sketches bridged studio practice and the era's fascination with character and costume.

About the Artist

Bartolomeo Passarotti · 1529–1592

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