Diana Bathing 1578 - 1660

Francesco Albani made this drawing, Diana Bathing, using pen and brown wash on paper. It’s a study, a quick sketch to try out ideas. The process of applying thin washes of ink allows the artist to create subtle gradations of light and shadow. This technique, requiring a skilled hand to control the flow of the wash, lends the figures a sense of volume and depth, even in the absence of strong lines. The ink itself, made from tannin, is a humble material, but it’s capable of extraordinary nuance. Consider the time and labor that goes into preparing the ink, selecting the paper, and mastering the techniques of drawing. These materials and processes are inseparable from the final artwork. They remind us that artistic creation is not just about inspiration, but also about the skillful application of knowledge, and the transformation of raw materials through human effort. The drawing is a celebration of skillful making.