A Noble Lady of Pisa
1581
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
1581
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
This drawing shows a woman in a long, flowing dress with a high collar and puffed sleeves. She holds a fan in one hand and a small object in the other, like a purse or book. The fabric has delicate patterns, and her hair is pulled back neatly. The background is plain, so all the focus stays on her. The words around her say "Nobilis femina Pisana," which means "Noble Lady of Pisa." The drawing was made with ink and some scratched lines, giving it a textured look. Next, check out the technique: cross-hatching to see how artists like this one used lines to create depth.