Academic Study of a Horse’s Head, 59 × 43 cm

Academic Study of a Horse’s Head, 59 × 43 cm
Mid-19th century
Graphite on watermarked paper “D. I. Calamari”

An academic study of a horse’s head, drawn as part of mid-19th-century training in anatomical rendering. The artist focuses on the bone structure of the muzzle, the orbital cavity, and the tension of the neck, using a controlled hatching that follows the modelling of the forms.

The sheet bears the watermark “D. I. Calamari”, from the Lucchese paper-making area, one of Tuscany’s most active centres in the 19th century. Such paper was commonly used for large-format studies in academic practice.

The drawing comes from one of two folders of works found in an old Tuscan property, containing exercises and copies produced between the 18th century and the first quarter of the 20th century.

Paper in good condition, with light undulation and small studio traces consistent with its use.