Antique framed Academic Chalk Drawing of a Greek Intellectual on sepia paper

Anonymous
Italy; 19th century
White and Dark Grey Chalk on Sepia Paper; narrow wooden frame

Approximate size: 8.25 (h) x 6 (w) in.

The present sketch, in Old Master style, is prevalent in texture and aged tones. The subject depicts a Greek intellectual, presumably following an antique bust. The subject’s character bears some superficial resemblance to Aristotle, the father of Reason, but also could depict an unknown philosopher, identified in busts like one at the National Archaeological Museum in Chieti and another at the Metropolitan Museum of Art (Inv. 26.269).

The drawing is handsomely bordered in a narrow metallic, textured frame.

Condition: minor losses along the left margin, various spotting along the extremities of the sheet and several creases running horizontally along the sheet, altogether adding a weathered elegance.