Head of Saint Stephen: Study for the Martyrdom of Saint Stephen
1627/30
Medium
Black chalk, heightened with touches of white chalk and white oil paint, on brown laid paper, laid down on Japanese paper, edge mounted to off-white wove paper
Dimensions
38.4 × 29.9 cm (15 1/8 × 11 13/16 in.)
Classification
chalk
Department
Prints and Drawings
Museum
Art Institute of Chicago
Accession Number
117196
Rights
Public Domain
Art Historical Context
This striking chalk study by Italian artist Giacomo Cavedone captures the intense expression of Saint Stephen, the first Christian martyr, as he faces his death by stoning. Created between 1627 and 1630, the drawing served as a preparatory work for a larger painting titled *The Martyrdom of Saint Stephen*. The focus on the saint’s head allows viewers to appreciate the emotional depth and human vulnerability central to this biblical narrative. Cavedone employed black chalk heightened with touches of white chalk and white oil paint on brown laid paper, a technique that heightens the dramatic contrast of light and shadow. This method was especially valued in the 17th century for exploring three-dimensional form and luminous effects before committing to canvas. The rich brown tone of the paper acts as a middle ground, giving the figure a sculptural presence. As a rare surviving study from the Prints and Drawings collection at the Art Institute of Chicago, this work offers insight into the artist’s creative process. Measuring just over 15 by 11 inches, it reveals how careful observation of expression and lighting helped shape the final, more monumental composition.
About the Artist
Giacomo Cavedone
Italian, Sassuolo 1577–1660 Bologna