Marcus Curtius Leaping into the Chasm (recto); Study of a Seated Crowned Female Figure (verso) 1638 - 1721

Luigi Garzi made this drawing in pen and brown ink with brown wash on paper. The physical qualities of these materials influence the artwork's appearance, emphasizing line and tone. Garzi uses the fluidity of ink to create dynamic movement in the figures and landscape. The brown wash adds depth and shadow, accentuating the drama of the scene. He would have likely used quill pens of various sizes to achieve the line variation visible in the artwork. The tools and techniques reflect a skilled tradition of draftsmanship common in Baroque art. However, the immediacy of drawing also contrasts with the labor-intensive processes often associated with painting. The artist captures a moment of action and emotion with a directness that highlights the handmade quality of the artwork. This reminds us that even in the age of mass production, the touch of the artist remains a powerful means of expression.