Artwork

The Nativity with Saints Francis and Agnes

The Nativity with Saints Francis and Agnes, by Lodovico Carracci, ink, 1605
The Nativity with Saints Francis and Agnes, by Lodovico Carracci, ink, 1605

The Nativity with Saints Francis and Agnes is an ink drawing by the Baroque artist Lodovico Carracci. It dates from 1605 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

This drawing, 'The Nativity with Saints Francis and Agnes', is a work by Lodovico Carracci, executed in pen and brown ink with brown wash, white heightening, and black chalk, with evidence of incising.

Technique & Style

The medium combines pen and brown ink, brown wash, and white heightening over a black chalk underdrawing, with visible incising, showcasing Carracci's draftsmanship and versatility in technique.

Subject & Meaning

The scene depicts the Nativity, accompanied by Saints Francis and Agnes, conveying a religious narrative characteristic of Carracci's oeuvre.

History & Provenance

Dating to around 1605, the drawing reflects Carracci's artistic production during a significant period in his career.

Artist & collection

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.