Studies of Three Shepherds resting

Studies of shepherds, pilgrims, monks, washerwomen and foresters are among Magnasco's favourite subjects. Often the figures depicted are somewhat isolated from one another. Magnasco executed these studies as independent works; they did not serve as preparatory drawings for his paintings. Only in very few cases is it possible to connect one of these studies with a specific figure in a painting.
The present drawing is close in handling and composition to a group of three drawings, executed in the same medium, sold at Christie's, New York, 30 January 1997, lots 67-9, illustrated.