Diogenes

Diogenes is a refined drawing executed in 1774 by John Downman (English, 1750-1824) or possibly after the great Renaissance master Raffaello Sanzio, called Raphael (Italian, 1483-1520). Classified as a drawing, this piece utilizes charcoal with stumping, a technique involving the blending of charcoal to achieve sophisticated tonal gradations and rich shadow effects on ivory laid paper. Downman, who gained renown for his delicate portraiture, here engages with classical subject matter, showcasing his mastery of figure drawing and placing the work firmly within the academic traditions of the late eighteenth century.

The subject is likely the famed Cynic philosopher Diogenes of Sinope, often depicted searching for an honest man or interacting with classical figures. Although the cultural classification points toward Italy, Downman was a British artist who spent time studying abroad, absorbing the influence of Renaissance and Baroque traditions. The creation of this work suggests an artist practicing his technique by carefully studying established compositions, perhaps adapting a figure from a major fresco or canvas by Raphael. The drawing survives as an important document of 18th-century artistic training, where the copying of established classical forms was fundamental to artistic development. As part of the public domain, this drawing ensures widespread access to Downman’s sensitive use of light and form, and high-quality prints of the work are frequently circulated for academic study and appreciation. The piece is held in the permanent collection of the Art Institute of Chicago.