Christ and the Woman of Samaria 1500 - 1600

This drawing, "Christ and the Woman of Samaria," now at the Met, was made by an anonymous artist using sanguine crayon on paper. The inherent qualities of sanguine – its dry, earthy pigment – lend the sketch a warmth and immediacy. Notice how the artist used the crayon to create delicate lines, capturing the subtle contours of Christ and the woman. The quick, gestural strokes suggest that the artist was working rapidly, perhaps trying to capture a fleeting moment or idea. This process of drawing, with its emphasis on directness and spontaneity, aligns with the artist's intention to explore form and composition. The choice of sanguine crayon, a relatively inexpensive and readily available material, also suggests a certain accessibility. Perhaps the artist was working outside the confines of a formal studio, engaging in a more informal mode of art making. The use of humble materials underscores the democratic potential of drawing as a medium, challenging traditional hierarchies between fine art and craft.