Study for the figures of Romeo and Juliet, c. 1854. Chalk, approximately 16.5 x 22.5 inches, Royal Academy Library, London. The head of Romeo in this drawing was replaced with that of the next study.

Study for the head of Romeo, 1854. Pencil, approximately 6 x 8 inches, Birmingham Art Gallery, Birmingham, England. The face is that of Vincenzo, a popular young Roman model.

Composition study, c. 1853-54. Pencil and color, approximately 15 x 21 inches, Städelsches Kunstinstitut, Frankfurt, Germany.
The oil painting has grown so dark over the years that it is difficult to say much about the background of the painting. This study suggests, however, that Leighton considered a detailed rendering of the tomb of the Capulets. The composition also shows the influence of the Gothic Revival in the architectural details, as well as a meticulous concern for accurate draftsmanship and perspective, suggesting the influence on Leighton of German art and drawing. The awkward positions, particularly of the legs, in the figures of both Romeo and Paris (on the right) have been corrected and improved in the final painting.