Scioravante leaves Cannetella in the Stable Henry Justice Ford (1860-1941)

The drawing presents a scene unfolding within what appears to be a stable or enclosed agricultural structure. A man and a woman occupy the foreground, their interaction forming the central focus. The male figure, positioned on the left, is characterized by his advanced age; he possesses a long, flowing beard and hair streaked with grey, suggesting considerable experience or perhaps even sorrow. He wears what seems to be a cloak draped over his shoulders, its folds adding visual weight and contributing to an impression of solemnity. His gaze is directed downwards, away from the woman, hinting at reluctance or emotional distance.
The female figure stands on the right, her posture conveying a sense of urgency or perhaps desperation. Her hair cascades down her back, partially obscuring a garment that drapes across her form. She leans towards the man, her expression difficult to discern precisely but suggesting an appeal or entreaty. A small animal – likely a goat – is positioned between them, its presence adding a layer of complexity to the narrative. It is held by the man and seems to be part of the departure process.
The artist employs a detailed hatching technique throughout the drawing, creating a strong contrast between light and shadow that enhances the dramatic effect. The lines are dense in areas of darkness, while lighter strokes delineate the figures’ forms and suggest texture. This meticulous rendering contributes to an overall sense of realism despite the stylized characterization of the individuals.
Subtleties within the composition invite interpretation. The setting – the stable – might symbolize a transition or departure from a familiar place. The goat could represent innocence, vulnerability, or perhaps even a burden being carried away. The man’s averted gaze and the womans leaning posture suggest an unresolved emotional dynamic; a parting that is not entirely amicable. The drawing conveys a narrative of separation, tinged with melancholy and uncertainty, leaving the viewer to ponder the circumstances surrounding this departure.