The Virgin and Child with Saint John the Baptist 1722

This chiaroscuro woodcut, "The Virgin and Child with Saint John the Baptist," was made by Anton Maria Zanetti the Elder. Notice how the composition emphasizes verticality, particularly in the architectural backdrop and the figures themselves. The use of light and shadow creates a dramatic effect, with stark contrasts defining forms and spaces. This interplay draws the eye across the composition, inviting a deeper engagement with the subject matter. The woodcut technique lends a unique texture, contributing to the work's aesthetic appeal and historical significance. Consider the cultural codes within this religious scene, and how the structural arrangement reinforces traditional hierarchies while also subtly engaging with contemporary artistic dialogues. Zanetti’s use of form and light, coupled with the structural semiotics of the era, present an opportunity to decode the layers of meaning embedded in this print.