Leaning Man
1700â1773
Classification
figures
Department
Smithsonian Collection
Museum
Smithsonian American Art Museum
Credit
Museum purchase through gift of various donors and from Eleanor G. Hewitt Fund
Accession Number
1938-88-4458
About this artwork
Research in Progress
Art Historical Context
Luigi Vanvitelli, an Italian architect and draftsman active during the 18th century, created "Leaning Man" sometime between 1700 and 1773. Best known for designing the majestic Royal Palace of Caserta, Vanvitelli in the late Baroque tradition while foreshadowing neoclassical restraint. This figure study, now part of the Smithsonian American Art Museum’s holdings, reflects his interest in human anatomy and posture—qualities that often informed the sculptural details of his grand architectural projects. Acquired through the generosity of multiple donors and the Eleanor G. Hewitt Fund, the work ...