1501
ink
paper
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
Virtue Triumphing over Vices is a 1501 ink by Italian 16th Century, a Renaissance work, held at National Gallery of Art.
This sketch shows a tall figure in fancy robes holding a bundle of wheat and a staff, standing over a group of slumped, scowling people. The central figure wears a crown and looks powerful, while the others—some holding mirrors or musical instruments—look down or away. The scene feels dramatic, with loose, quick lines and dark shading. The wheat bundle is a clue: it often stands for abundance or good harvests. The artist used ink and wash to keep it simple but expressive, focusing on mood over detail. Next, check out how artists used cross-hatching to create depth in Renaissance sketches.
A 16th-century Italian sculptor left us small bronze works in dark brown and gold.
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