Domenico Zampieri, called Domenichino (meaning “little Domenico” because of his small stature), was active in Bologna, Italy. He studied under the Flemish painter Denis Calvaert, before joining the Accademia degli Incamminati led by the brothers Annibale and Agostino Carracci; in 1602 he left for Rome becoming there one of the most talented apprentices to emerge from Annibale Carracci’s workshop. One of Domenichino’s masterpieces in Rome are the frescoes with the Scenes of the Life of Saint Cecilia in the church of San Luigi dei Francesi (1612-1615).

Domenichino’s drawings are rare in public collections because the bulk of over 2000 sheets from his studio (not all by Domenichino) remained together at his death and later entered the British Royal Collection. This drawing is likely to be by an artist of his entourage, or a follower. Although the hand is hesitant around the sitter’s eyes, the shading of the face and the definition of the collar are indicative of a skilled draftsman.

With Giorgio and Armando Neerman Gallery, London (1968); where acquired by John Smith; gifted to The Samuel Courtauld Trust, 2025.