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Three Studies of Hands Clasped in Prayer

Jacopo Guarana

1764

chalk

paper

From the collection of National Gallery of Art

Baroque 18th Century Religious Prayer

Dominant colour

Three Studies of Hands Clasped in Prayer is a 1764 chalk by Jacopo Guarana, a Baroque work, depicting Prayer, held at National Gallery of Art.

Who painted this?: Jacopo Guarana
When & what style?: 1764 · Baroque
Where can I see it?: National Gallery of Art

About this work

This sketch shows three quick studies of hands pressed together in prayer. The paper’s warm brown tone makes the white chalk pop. One hand looks rough and worn, another smooth and young. Guarana made these studies to practice hands for bigger religious works. He used chalk to capture light and shadow fast. The loose lines feel alive, like he moved quickly. Check out more of Guarana’s drawings at the National Gallery of Art, Washington.