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The Baptism of Christ

Jacopo Palma il Giovane

1588

ink

From the collection of National Gallery of Art

Renaissance Renaissance Religious

Dominant colour

The Baptism of Christ is a 1588 ink by Jacopo Palma il Giovane, a Renaissance work, held at National Gallery of Art.

Who painted this?: Jacopo Palma il Giovane
When & what style?: 1588 · Renaissance
Where can I see it?: National Gallery of Art

About this work

This sketch shows three figures in a rough, quick style. One person is kneeling on a rock, reaching toward another who stands half-bent, arms outstretched. A third figure crouches behind them, holding what looks like a cloth. The lines are scratchy, and the whole scene feels half-finished, like a first draft. The gold highlights in the wash give the figures a faint glow, making them stand out against the plain brown background. This sketch style was common for artists testing ideas before painting. Next, check out how gouache works—it’s a mix of watercolor and opaque paint.