#11422 Ricart

The drawing presents a figure seated upon elaborate stonework, seemingly within a classical architectural setting. The man is depicted in profile, his gaze directed towards something beyond the frame, suggesting contemplation or melancholy. He wears Roman military attire – a tunic with decorative embellishments and sandals – indicating a position of authority or status. A laurel wreath adorns his head, further reinforcing this impression.
The artist employed dense cross-hatching to create shading and texture, giving the drawing a stark, dramatic quality. The background is rendered with a similar technique, suggesting foliage and architectural details that recede into darkness. This treatment emphasizes the figures isolation and draws attention to his posture and expression.
Below the seated man, inscribed in bold lettering, are the words ANTONY AND CLEOPATRA. This textual element immediately establishes a narrative context, hinting at themes of love, loss, political intrigue, and ultimately, tragedy. The inscription is positioned so as to appear integral to the scene rather than an afterthought, suggesting it’s not merely a title but part of the visual storytelling.
The mans posture – leaning heavily on what appears to be a stone ledge or tablet – conveys weariness and perhaps defeat. His hand rests upon this surface, almost as if seeking support. The overall impression is one of profound sadness and resignation, amplified by the stark contrast between light and shadow and the weighty presence of the inscription. The drawing seems to capture a moment of introspection within a larger narrative of decline and downfall.