Studies on a great "picture of Mary" head with curly hair (angel) 

In this drawing by Albrecht Dürer, we see a head with curly hair, sketched with delicate lines. The face, bathed in light, shows an intense gaze, giving the piece a captivating presence. Dürer masterfully uses hatching and shading to model the form, lending a sense of volume and depth to the figure's features. Look closely at the hair, each curl meticulously rendered with precise strokes that capture its texture and movement. The stark contrast between light and shadow not only defines the shape but also infuses the drawing with a sense of drama and energy. What is also interesting is the way he destabilizes the established meanings of this figure; this portrait prompts us to reconsider the traditional aesthetic and symbolic associations of Renaissance portraiture and the use of religious iconography. The artist's keen attention to detail invites us to contemplate the skill involved in its creation. The drawing becomes a testament to artistic process and conceptual engagement, perpetually open to new readings.