Madonna and Child with Saints John and Joseph [recto]
1601
chalk
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
![Madonna and Child with Saints John and Joseph [recto]](https://pub-3a17a9933ad74fb28aa30fa758592f23.r2.dev/artworks/9af1da01f3814a36/full.webp)
1601
chalk
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
This sketch shows four figures in flowing robes, drawn in quick, loose red chalk lines. The central figure holds a child, while the others stand around them in a slightly awkward grouping. The paper has visible texture, and the lines are light but confident, leaving some areas blank. The artist focused on movement and gesture, not detail—clothes ripple like wind, and faces stay simple. This style was common in early planning sketches. Next, look up the technique: sfumato to see how artists used soft blends like this.
