Head of a boy and section of a horse's mane

The drawing Head of a boy and section of a horse's mane by Raphael (Raffaello Sanzio or Santi), created during the early 16th century (1500–1550), is an exceptional example of preparatory work from the Italian High Renaissance. This work, classified as a drawing, was executed using a sophisticated technique involving brush, brown and red gouache, applied meticulously over initial guidelines made with black chalk. This combination allowed the artist to achieve a rich textural quality and defined volume for the figures.

The composition focuses intently on two distinct, yet interconnected, subjects: the detailed features of a young boy’s head and the expressive rendering of a horse’s coarse, dynamic mane. Such studies of individual heads and animals were crucial to Raphael’s creative process, enabling him to refine specific motifs before integrating them into larger frescoes or panel paintings. The careful modeling provided by the gouache demonstrates the master’s command over light and shadow, highlighting his technical excellence even in a seemingly modest sketch.

As a profound record of Renaissance drafting technique, this piece is housed in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art. The work reflects the period’s emphasis on naturalistic portrayal and idealized form. Today, masterpieces such as this drawing are often available in the public domain, allowing students and art lovers worldwide to appreciate and obtain prints of Raphael’s foundational studies, ensuring his influence continues through reproductions of these magnificent preparatory drawings.