Gianlorenzo Bernini
1598-1680
Caricature of a Cavalier
8 1/8 x 5 3/4 inches (207 x 145 mm)
Pen and brown ink on laid paper.
1980.46
Gift of Janos Scholz.
Notes
Watermark: none visible through lining.
Although best known as a sculptor and architect, Bernini was also a gifted caricaturist. This sketch, drawn rapidly and with utmost economy, reveals the artist's great sense of humor and gift of clinical observation. The identity of the cavalier is not known, but his exaggerated features must have been immediately recognizable to those in Bernini's circle. The sheet has the distinctive pattern of folds used in early letters, and the drawing was presumably sent to a friend. -- Exhibition Label, from "Life Lines: Portrait Drawings from Dürer to Picasso."
Although best known as a sculptor and architect, Bernini was also a gifted caricaturist. This sketch, drawn rapidly and with utmost economy, reveals the artist's great sense of humor and gift of clinical observation. The identity of the cavalier is not known, but his exaggerated features must have been immediately recognizable to those in Bernini's circle. The sheet has the distinctive pattern of folds used in early letters, and the drawing was presumably sent to a friend. -- Exhibition Label, from "Life Lines: Portrait Drawings from Dürer to Picasso."
Associated names
Scholz, János, former owner.
Bibliography
Ryskamp, Charles, ed. Nineteenth Report to the Fellows of the Pierpont Morgan Library, 1978-1980. New York : Pierpont Morgan Library, 1981, p. 177.
Scholz, Janos. Italian Master Drawings, 1350-1800, from the János Scholz Collection. New York : Dover, 1976, no. 89, repr.
Scholz, Janos. Italian Master Drawings, 1350-1800, from the János Scholz Collection. New York : Dover, 1976, no. 89, repr.
Artist
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Century Drawings
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