Who painted Figures on Steps (Studies for an Assumption of the Virgin)?

Figures on Steps (Studies for an Assumption of the Virgin) was painted by Carlo Maratta in 1601.

Where can I see Figures on Steps (Studies for an Assumption of the Virgin)?

Figures on Steps (Studies for an Assumption of the Virgin) is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Figures on Steps (Studies for an Assumption of the Virgin)?

Figures on Steps (Studies for an Assumption of the Virgin) is associated with Baroque.

Can I buy a print of Figures on Steps (Studies for an Assumption of the Virgin)?

Museum-quality prints of Figures on Steps (Studies for an Assumption of the Virgin) are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.

Artwork

Figures on Steps (Studies for an Assumption of the Virgin)

Carlo Maratta , 1601

Figures on Steps (Studies for an Assumption of the Virgin) is an ink drawing by the Baroque artist Carlo Maratta. It dates from 1601 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

Inscription: Inscribed:on steps in image: MARATTI; by later hand, upper center verso in graphite: 2-928; by later hand, lower right verso in graphite: A0

About this work

Overview

This drawing, Figures on Steps, is a preparatory work by Carlo Maratta, executed in pen and brown ink over graphite on laid paper.

Technique & Style

The drawing features rapid, gestural lines in brown ink over faint graphite underdrawing. Maratta employed cross-hatching to create nuanced shading, achieving depth without smudging the ink.

Subject & Meaning

The work depicts figures ascending steps, their arms outstretched, likely a study for Maratta's Assumption of the Virgin painting. The expressive faces convey emotion, suggesting a narrative focus.

History & Provenance

Created as a study for a larger composition, this drawing reflects Maratta's preparatory process for a significant church painting, although the exact date is not verified to be 1601, as Maratta was born in 1625.

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Artist & collection

Artist

Carlo Maratta

Carlo Maratta or Maratti (18 May 1625 – 15 December 1713) was an Italian Baroque painter and draughtsman, active principally in Rome where he was the leading painter in the second half of the 17th century.