Palagi was an Italian painter, architect, designer, and collector. He was influenced by the linear, mannered style of Felice Giani (1758–1823), with whom he frequented the important evening drawing sessions at the house of the engraver Francesco Rosaspina (1762–1841). Palagi made accomplished drawings in chalk, and was evidently inspired by the work of Francesco Rosaspina, choosing to draw the engraver’s portrait on at least one occasion. Although this image does not convey the tools of the printmaker’s trade, Palagi shows his sitter gazing at a subject to his left. By showing the engraver lost in thought, Palagi pays homage to a man who clearly impacted his own artistic development.