Youth Sitting on a Wall in Conversation with Two Menc. 1656/1657

The image shows a drawing of three figures. The central figure is seated, leaning slightly forward with one arm outstretched towards the standing figures. They have short, slightly messy hair, traditional clothing, and muscular limbs. The standing figures on the right are partially obscured but appear to interact with the seated figure. One of them is extending their arm towards the seated figure. The individuals wear layered clothing, with one wearing a head covering. The background is simple, emphasizing the interaction between the figures. The drawing style is classical or historical, using ink and wash for texture and depth.

Description from the National Gallery of Art.

Salvator Rosa drew this in about 1656/1657, aged about 41. It is now at the National Gallery of Art in Washington, DC.

How it was made

Chalk

Natural black, red and white chalks. Used together on toned paper they could give the warmth of flesh with very little effort, and they were favourites for studies from life.

Pen and ink

Drawn with a quill or reed pen, often with wash added by brush to model light and shadow.

Laid paper

Handmade on a mould of close-set wires, which leave fine parallel lines you can see when the sheet is held to the light.