The Mystic Marriage of Saint Catherine of Alexandria 1551 - 1629

Avanzino Nucci made this oval drawing, "The Mystic Marriage of Saint Catherine of Alexandria", using pen and brown ink, heightened with white gouache, over black chalk. Nucci’s technique is a study in contrasts. He skillfully used the pen to create fine, precise lines, defining the figures and architectural details with clarity. But the real magic lies in his application of brown ink wash and white gouache. By diluting the brown ink, Nucci achieved a range of tonal values, creating subtle gradations of light and shadow. The white gouache is applied with a deft hand, bringing highlights that make the figures seem almost luminous. The drawing is more than just a depiction of a religious scene; it's a record of Nucci's deep engagement with materials. His work invites us to appreciate the skilled hand that shaped it, transcending the traditional boundaries between craft and fine art.