Seated Figure with Crown, Holding Sceptre and Book, with Host Below n.d.

This drawing, "Seated Figure with Crown" by Lazzaro Tavarone, was made in the late 16th or early 17th century with pen and brown ink on laid paper. The artist's hand is evident in the rapid, exploratory lines, typical of a preparatory sketch. We can almost feel the movement of his hand across the page, a direct connection to the artist’s thinking. The material itself, humble paper and ink, allows for a level of intimacy and immediacy, distinct from more laborious mediums like painting or sculpture. The conscious decision to use these accessible materials underscores the importance of drawing as a fundamental tool in the artist's practice. Consider the labor involved – the artist carefully selecting his pen, mixing the ink, and meticulously rendering the composition. This process-oriented view invites us to appreciate the skill and dedication required to create even a seemingly simple sketch. It challenges us to look beyond the finished product, and recognize the value inherent in the act of making itself.