The Three Marys
1594
ink
paper
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
About the artist
1594
ink
paper
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
The Three Marys is a 1594 ink by Johann Willinges, a Renaissance work, held at National Gallery of Art.
This sketch shows three women standing close together. Their long robes flow down to their feet, and they all wear head coverings. The woman in the middle holds a small object, maybe a cup or a book, and the others seem to be looking or pointing toward something above them. The drawing looks like it was done quickly, with loose lines and shading. The paper has a rough texture, and the ink is layered in spots, giving it a sketchy, unfinished feel. If you like this style, look up cross-hatching next.
