Christ in Glory with Kneeling Virgin n.d.

Giulio Cesare Angeli rendered this drawing of Christ in Glory with Kneeling Virgin in pen and brown ink, sometime between 1585 and 1630. It's done on a sheet of paper that has been cut in an irregular shape. The artist's hand is very present here; notice the cross-hatching used to model the figures and to create tonal variations. This technique demands careful control and skillful manipulation of the pen. The rapid, freehand strokes suggest a directness of expression, with minimal intervention between the artist's idea and its execution on paper. The work involved in creating such a detailed drawing would have required precision, patience and many hours of labor. The quality of the line itself is important. The pressure applied to the pen, the speed of the stroke, and the absorbency of the paper all contribute to the final effect. This reminds us that drawing is not just about representing an image, but also about the physical act of making. By understanding the materials and processes involved, we gain a deeper appreciation for the artist's skill and intention, challenging any distinction between high art and craft.