The Founding of Santa Maria Maggiore
1582
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
1582
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
This drawing shows a group of people in robes and tall hats gathered around a bed. One person lies in the bed, while others stand or kneel nearby, pointing or holding objects. The background has faint sketches of buildings and a cross, and the whole scene feels slightly faded, like an old sketch. The artist used quick lines and light shading to show movement and emotion. Notice how the figures’ robes flow differently—some are stiff, others look like they’re in motion. Next, check out cross-hatching to see how artists build shadows with layers of lines.
