Saint Paul (?) or Saint Matthew (?)
1475
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
1475
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
This is a black-and-white drawing of a bearded man in flowing robes. He stands firmly on a wooden floor, holding a sword in one hand and a book in the other. His long hair and serious face give him a wise, strong look. The name "Maththous" is written above his head, which might be a clue to who he’s meant to be. The lines in the drawing are sharp and detailed, showing folds in the cloth and shadows. This is an example of engraving, a technique where artists etch designs into metal plates.