The Madonna and Child Seated before a Ledge
1630
graphite
vellum
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
1630
graphite
vellum
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
The Madonna and Child Seated before a Ledge is a 1630 graphite by Thierry Bellange, a Baroque work, held at National Gallery of Art.
This drawing shows a woman holding a baby, both sitting on a rock ledge. She wears a red dress and a halo, while the baby has tiny wings and a golden crown. Behind them, a bird perches on the ground, and a vase with flowers sits on a shelf. The background is light with soft clouds, and the whole scene is framed by a dark border with a gold edge. The artist used chalk and gold to create a warm, glowing effect on the vellum. Notice how the light seems to shine on their faces and clothes, making them stand out. Look up chiaroscuro next to see how this lighting trick works.
