Holy Family with the Infant Saint John n.d.

Ciro Ferri made this drawing of the Holy Family with the Infant Saint John in the 17th century, using red chalk on paper. The material itself, humble as it is, offers us a direct connection to the artist’s hand. Chalk, unlike paint, doesn’t allow for easy correction, so each stroke reveals Ferri’s confidence and skill. Notice the layering of lines, building up shadows and defining forms. The texture of the paper also plays a role, catching the chalk and creating a slightly rough, almost tactile surface. Drawings like this one were often preparatory studies for larger paintings, a crucial step in the workshop production of art. Ferri, as a master, would have overseen assistants, each with their own level of skill, contributing to the final artwork. This division of labor was common in the art world, much like in other industries of the time. By appreciating the materials and the process, we recognize the collective effort behind even a single drawing, blurring the lines between individual genius and collaborative craft.