The education of the Virgin, with Saint Anne and the Virgin Mary reading with two putti overhead and Saint Joachim behind them at left 1695 - 1723

This engraving at the Metropolitan Museum of Art depicts "The Education of the Virgin, with Saint Anne and the Virgin Mary." The composition is structured vertically, dividing the earthly from the divine. On the lower plane, the figures of Saint Anne and the Virgin Mary are rendered with detailed lines that define the folds of their garments and the contours of their faces, creating a sense of weight and presence. Above, two putti float ethereally, their forms lighter and less defined, suggesting a divine realm. The use of line in this engraving is striking, creating tonal variations and textures. The contrast between the darker, densely etched areas and the lighter, more open spaces gives the image depth and volume. This formal arrangement invites contemplation on the hierarchical relationship between the earthly and the divine.