Heads of a Boy and a Bearded Man (an Apostle)

Before you is "Heads of a Boy and a Bearded Man (an Apostle)," a captivating painting by Sebastiano Ricci from the Royal Collection. This intimate work, measuring 56.2 centimeters wide and 46 centimeters high, presents a close-up study of two heads: a young boy and a bearded man, possibly an apostle. While the exact date of creation remains unknown, the painting's style is immediately engaging. Notice the gentle, almost pensive expression of the boy, his light brown curls framing a face turned downward. His simple, light-colored garment contrasts with the more serious countenance of the bearded man positioned beside him. The man's gaze seems directed slightly away, his full dark beard and wavy brown hair adding to his contemplative air. The soft, diffused light and warm earth tones of beige and brown create a harmonious palette, enhancing the focus on the subjects' expressions. The background's muted gold-beige subtly suggests a canvas or wall, further emphasizing the intimacy of this character study. The loose brushstrokes suggest this may have been a preparatory sketch for a larger religious work, a glimpse into the artist's process and his skill in capturing human likeness and emotion.