The Virgin in Glory
1608
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
1608
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
Dominant colour
The Virgin in Glory is a 1608 ink by Abraham Bloemaert, a Renaissance work, held at National Gallery of Art.
This drawing shows a glowing figure floating above a group of people. The central figure has wings and a halo, holding out hands as if blessing the scene below. The people on the ground look up, some kneeling, others reaching toward her. The background is filled with swirling clouds and small angels. The artist used ink and wash on blue paper to create depth and light. The pale colors stand out against the dark lines, making the scene feel heavenly. Next, look up cross-hatching to see how artists build shadows with lines.
