Study of two sitting male nudes

Johann Veit Kauperz (1741–1815)
Study of two sitting male nudes

Below right: Kaupertz v. Gratz
Red chalk drawing
Inv.-No. HZ 53

This typical academy drawing was created when Johann Veit Kauperz attended the Vienna Academy (from 1766 to 1770) under Jakob Mathias Schmutzer. The intertwined bodies of two young, muscular men challenged the draughtsman in regard to perspective, proportions, anatomy and light conditions. While one of the models could lean on a staff during the session, the right arm of the nude figure with his back to us may have been supported in a sling hanging from the ceiling. Created by Kauperz in Vienna, the study would serve as a model for his students at the Graz Drawing Academy.