Portraits of Serafino and Francesco Falzacappa

On the right side of this drawing, Serafino Falzacappa practices writing his name, while in the middle, his older brother Francesco grasps a hefty book in his small hands. The boys are not dressed for a formal portrait, and seem at ease in a comfortable environment, which lends a sense of immediacy to the drawing. Inkpots and quill pens stand ready for the boys' use. Pier Leone Ghezzi, more known today for his caricature drawings, recorded a scene from daily life in the 1700s that is as familiar and meaningful as any modern portrait of children. Ghezzi probably made this engaging scene in a quiet moment while visiting the Falzacappa family, who were his longtime patrons.