Saint Anne Received by the Virgin and Christ
1670
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
1670
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
This sketch shows a crowded scene of figures floating in the air. At the top, an older woman holds a crown and looks down. Below her, a younger woman cradles a baby, while a child reaches up. Around them, more small figures—some winged—drift or cling to the group. The lines are rough and busy, giving everything a swirling, active feel. The title at the bottom calls it *Sancta Anna*, which likely means this is about Saint Anne teaching the Virgin Mary. The artist signed it as Giordano, using a printmaking method that lets you see every scratch of the tool. Next, look up etching to see how artists like Giordano made these detailed prints.
