Artwork
Tribute Money
Tribute Money is a chalk drawing by the Renaissance artist Unknown. It dates from 1608 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
Tribute Money is a red chalk drawing on laid paper, depicting a scene of Jesus engaged with a group of robed men, centered around a coin he holds, set against a background with a wall and window.
Subject & Meaning
The drawing illustrates a biblical moment where Jesus makes a point to a gathering, likely referencing the 'Tribute Money' episode, conveying an atmosphere of contemplative discussion through facial expressions and body language.
Technique & Style
Executed in red chalk, the work employs strong contrasts of light and dark, suggestive of chiaroscuro techniques, which create depth and volume in the composition, particularly in the rendering of figures and architectural elements.
Context
The style and use of chiaroscuro link the drawing to artistic practices of its time, possibly indicating influence from or similarity to contemporary artists who utilized such lighting effects for dramatic and spatial purposes.
Artist & collection
Domestic Scene
Giacomo and Cardinal Marco, investing Andrea, Abbot of San Zeno, with his Benefice
The Nymph of Fontainebleau
Portrait of a Woman
Madonna and Child with Saints in the Enclosed Garden
Venus and Minerva
Family Group of Four on Sofa
Wall painting from Room H of the Villa of P. Fannius Synistor at Boscoreale
The Miracle of the Lame Man Healed by Saint Peter and Saint John
David and the Patriarchs with a Donor
Adonias Imploring the Grace of Solomon or Jeroboam Kneeling before Rehoboam
Scenes from the Life of Saint Peter
Saints Peter and John Healing the Lame Man at the Golden Gate
Supper at Emmaus
Joseph Recounting His Dreams
Christ among the Doctors
The Circumcision