Artwork

The Assumption of the Virgin

The Assumption of the Virgin, by Baldassare Franceschini, chalk
The Assumption of the Virgin, by Baldassare Franceschini, chalk

The Assumption of the Virgin is a chalk drawing by the Baroque artist Baldassare Franceschini. It is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

The Assumption of the Virgin is a drawing by Baldassare Franceschini, created around 1667. It is executed in red chalk on cream laid paper.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts figures wrapped in drapery, ascending in a dynamic, chaotic manner. The composition is dominated by swirling lines, with faint circular forms suggesting faces or halos, but lacks a defined background.

Technique & Style

The work is characterized by expressive, varied red chalk lines that convey a sense of urgency and energy. The artist's use of a single medium creates a cohesive, spontaneous appearance.

Context

The drawing's dynamic energy is consistent with the artistic trends of the Baroque period, which often featured intense, emotive, and highly expressive works.

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.