Pope Sixtus V

Pope Sixtus V

Prospero Bresciano

1589

ink

From the collection of National Gallery of Art

About this work

This etching shows an older man with a long white beard and curly hair, dressed in heavy robes. His hands are clasped together, and he looks down with a serious expression. The fabric of his robe is detailed with lines and patterns, and there’s a small dog at his feet. The artist used fine lines to create texture, especially in the fur and fabric. This was made in 1589, a time when artists focused on precise details. Next, look up technique: etching to see how this method works.

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