The Holy Family with Saint Philip Neri in Adoration, an Angel, and Putti
1649
chalk
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
1649
chalk
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
This drawing shows a group of people and small winged babies called putti gathered around a man holding a child. The scene looks busy but warm, with soft lines and shading. One woman in a long dress stands near the man, while another older man kneels in front of them, holding a book. Notice how the artist used light and shadow to make the figures look three-dimensional, even though it’s just ink on paper. The putti in the corners seem to be watching the scene, adding to the sense of movement. If you like this style, look up Baroque to see more art with dramatic lighting and emotion.