Bozzetto

/bɒtˈsɛtoʊ/ noun

Definition

A small preliminary model or sketch, especially in sculpture or painting, created by an artist to test ideas before making the final work.

Etymology

From Italian 'bozzetto' (diminutive of 'bozzo' meaning sketch or rough model). The diminutive '-etto' suffix emphasizes the small, preliminary nature of the work.

Kelly Says

The Italian 'bozzetto' tradition reveals that even professional sculptors and painters see their work as a journey from rough idea to finished product—the bozzetto is the moment when vision first takes tangible form before perfection happens.

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