Salome with the Head of St. John the Baptist

Italienische Grafik 1579–1623, c. 1580

This is a drawing depicting a group of figures in a dramatic pose. The image features well-defined human forms, showcasing anatomy and movement. In the foreground, there are two outlined figures; one with a muscular back and another reaching out with a draped garment. Several other figures appear in the background, creating depth and interaction. Shading and cross-hatching techniques give volume and texture to the composition, and grid lines suggest it may be a preparatory sketch for a larger work or fresco. The figures exude a classical feel, emphasizing dynamic gesture and elegant drapery.
Artist
Italienische Grafik 1579–1623
Date
c. 1580
Type
Drawing
Medium
pen and black ink with brown wash and black chalk, heightened with white gouache and squared for transfer in black chalk, on blue laid paper
Dimensions
42.4 × 47.7 cm
Collection
National Gallery of Art, Washington
Licence
Public domain, CC0

Image description

This is a drawing depicting a group of figures in a dramatic pose. The image features well-defined human forms, showcasing anatomy and movement. In the foreground, there are two outlined figures; one with a muscular back and another reaching out with a draped garment. Several other figures appear in the background, creating depth and interaction. Shading and cross-hatching techniques give volume and texture to the composition, and grid lines suggest it may be a preparatory sketch for a larger work or fresco. The figures exude a classical feel, emphasizing dynamic gesture and elegant drapery.

Italienische Grafik 1579–1623