Standing Man in a Full Coat and High Hat with a Medaillon

Standing Man in a Full Coat and High Hat with a Medaillon by Giovanni Battista Tiepolo is a characteristic example of 18th-century Venetian draftsmanship. As a drawing, this piece showcases the artist’s prolific skill in rapid yet detailed character studies. The work was executed using pen and dark brown ink, combined with a sophisticated brush and brown wash, a medium Tiepolo frequently employed for both preparatory studies and independent sheets.

The male figure dominates the composition, portrayed in formal, voluminous attire typical of the era, including a heavy coat and a distinctly high hat. The emphasis is placed on the man’s stance and the texture of his garments, while the subtle yet effective application of the brown wash defines deep shadows and robust form. This deft manipulation of light and dark contributes a theatrical quality common in Tiepolo's output, whether the piece was intended as an isolated study or as a figure model for a grander fresco.

This drawing is emblematic of the High Rococo period, demonstrating the artist’s interest in conveying not just realistic human figures, but also archetypal characters and historical costumes. It serves as an important record of the style that cemented Tiepolo's reputation as one of the great draftsmen of the European tradition.

This significant work is preserved within the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Due to its age and cultural value, the image is increasingly available for scholarly examination. High-quality prints of this and related drawings are often found in the public domain, allowing broader access for enthusiasts and researchers studying 18th-century art.