Who painted Studies of Saint James the Greater?

Studies of Saint James the Greater was painted by Carlo Maratta in 1686.

Where can I see Studies of Saint James the Greater?

Studies of Saint James the Greater is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Studies of Saint James the Greater?

Studies of Saint James the Greater is associated with Baroque.

Artwork

Studies of Saint James the Greater

Carlo Maratta , 1686

Studies of Saint James the Greater is a chalk drawing by the Baroque artist Carlo Maratta. It dates from 1686 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Studies of Saint James the Greater is a drawing by Carlo Maratta, created around 1686. It is executed in red chalk with white highlights on blue paper.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts a robed figure, identified as Saint James the Greater, with one arm raised and the other resting on a cloth. The figure's pose and attire suggest a moment of reverence or devotion.

Technique & Style

The artist employed red chalk to establish the forms and shading, reserving white chalk for highlights, such as on the figure's face. This technique allowed for a range of tonal values and subtle texture, characteristic of Maratta's preparatory drawings.

Context

This drawing was likely a study for a larger painting, a common practice among artists of the time. The use of red chalk and white highlights on colored paper was a typical method for exploring composition and figure arrangement.