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The Last Judgment

Giulio Benso

1644

ink

paper

From the collection of National Gallery of Art

Baroque Baroque Allegory

Dominant colour

The Last Judgment is a 1644 ink by Giulio Benso, a Baroque work, held at National Gallery of Art.

Who painted this?: Giulio Benso
When & what style?: 1644 · Baroque
Where can I see it?: National Gallery of Art

About this work

This sketch shows a chaotic scene of figures rising, falling, and reaching toward a cross at the top. Some appear to be ascending, while others seem to struggle downward. The lines are loose and quick, with lots of movement and overlapping bodies. Notice how the artist used simple ink lines to show emotion and action—no colors, just shading with pen strokes. The paper looks old, with a slightly yellowed edge. If you like this sketchy style, check out cross-hatching next.