Standing Warrior

The drawing Standing Warrior is a compelling example of historical pastiche, formally attributed to the Style of Nicolas Poussin (French, 1594-1665) or Stefano della Bella (Italian, 1610-1664). Although its style evokes the dramatic classicism of the 17th century, the piece was executed much later, dating from 1775 to 1799. This Italian drawing is meticulously rendered using pen and brown ink on ivory laid paper, showcasing a mastery of line and contour that suggests training in academic draftsmanship.

The work features a single male figure, clad in classical armor, standing in a decisive, almost theatrical pose. The artist carefully articulated the anatomy and drapery through precise, controlled ink work, techniques often studied from master prints and preparatory drawings. While Poussin was celebrated for his rational, highly structured compositions, Della Bella was known for his spirited figure studies and prolific output of etchings. This drawing reflects an effort by a late 18th-century artist in Italy to emulate the dynamic gravitas and stylistic characteristics associated with both Baroque masters.

This drawing is preserved in the collection of the Art Institute of Chicago, where it offers insight into the persistence of Baroque models during the shift toward Neoclassicism. Highlighting the continuity of classical subject matter and technique, the work is representative of historical art that often falls into the public domain, allowing its technical details to be widely studied by those interested in the history of prints and figure composition.