Artwork

The Transfiguration

The Transfiguration, by Ercole Setti, ink, 1580
The Transfiguration, by Ercole Setti, ink, 1580

The Transfiguration is an ink drawing by the Renaissance artist Ercole Setti. It dates from 1580 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

The Transfiguration, a pen and brown ink drawing on laid paper, was created by Ercole Setti around 1580. It is currently part of the collection at the National Gallery of Art in Washington.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts a dynamic scene of figures in various poses amidst a swirling, aerial environment. Some figures stand upright with outstretched arms, while others are positioned below, either floating or kneeling, with some entwined in fabric or cloud-like elements, suggesting a narrative scene.

Technique & Style

Setti employed thick, busy lines to convey a sense of movement and energy. The drawing features cross-hatching, a technique where tiny, crisscrossed lines create depth and a three-dimensional appearance, enhancing the visual complexity of the composition.

History & Provenance

Created circa 1580, the work's provenance prior to its acquisition by the National Gallery of Art, Washington, is not detailed in the provided information.

Context

Given its subject and style, The Transfiguration likely reflects the artistic and religious themes prevalent during the late Renaissance, though specific contextual details about its creation or initial display are not provided.

Legacy

The drawing's impact or influence on subsequent artistic movements or works is not specified in the available information.

Artist & collection

Artist

Ercole Setti

Ercole Setti (1570–1590) was an artist.

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