Artwork
Santa Maria Maggiore
Santa Maria Maggiore is an ink drawing by the Baroque artist Lieven Cruyl. It dates from 1665 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
Santa Maria Maggiore is a drawing by Lieven Cruyl, created around 1665. It is executed in pen and brown ink with brown wash over graphite on vellum.
Subject & Meaning
The drawing depicts a grand church with two large domes and a tall bell tower, surrounded by a wide plaza with smaller buildings and ornate columns topped with statues. The level of detail suggests the artist's interest in capturing the church's architectural features.
Technique & Style
Cruyl employed a range of techniques, including pen and ink, wash, and graphite, to create depth and texture in the drawing. The use of brown ink and wash gives the scene a warm, earthy tone, while the vellum support adds to the overall aged appearance.
Context
The drawing reflects the Baroque style, which influenced church architecture and art during the 17th century. Characteristics of this style, such as grandiose proportions and ornate decoration, are evident in the depiction of Santa Maria Maggiore.
Artist & collection
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River Landscape with View of St. Peter's Basilica
A View of Rome from Santa Maria del Priorato
Eighteen Views of Rome: The Church of Santa Maria in Vallicella
![Santa Maria Maggiore from "Prospectus Locurum Urbis Romae Insign[ium]", by Lievin Cruyl](https://artifactworldgallery.com/img/lievin-cruyl--santa-maria-maggiore-from-prospectus-locurum-urbis-romae-ins--552492caf03c6a55-w320.webp)
