Madonna and Child with Saint Charles Borromeo and Other Saints c. 1610 - 1615

Alessandro Tiarini created this drawing, Madonna and Child with Saint Charles Borromeo and Other Saints, using pen and brown wash on paper. During Tiarini’s life the Catholic Church was a significant political and cultural power. The imagery of the Madonna and Child would have been deeply familiar and emotionally resonant for Italian audiences of the 17th century. Tiarini includes Saint Charles Borromeo in this composition; Borromeo was a cardinal during the Counter-Reformation, a movement that aimed to reaffirm Catholic doctrine, in response to the Protestant Reformation. Borromeo’s presence in the drawing speaks to themes of religious authority. However, the sketch-like quality softens the imagery, inviting viewers into an intimate, yet unfinished, devotional moment. This drawing emphasizes a personal spiritual connection. The unfinished nature of the work may inspire introspection on the viewer’s part.