A River God and Other Figures on a Parapet
ca. 1740
Tiepolo was the king of the Rococo sketch, and this drawing shows exactly why. You've got a group of bearded river gods—identified by that giant urn on the right—leaning over a parapet like neighbors gossiping over a fence, accompanied by a remarkably chill baby. The loose, scribbly lines and washes of brown ink suggest this was a quick study for a larger fresco, capturing the theatrical energy and humor Tiepolo was famous for. It’s a wonderful glimpse into the artist's mind, showing how he played with composition before painting the final masterpiece.
- Technique
- Pen and brown ink with wash
- Material
- Paper
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