Artwork

The Virgin, Queen of Heaven

The Virgin, Queen of Heaven, by Francesco Vanni, ink, 1601
The Virgin, Queen of Heaven, by Francesco Vanni, ink, 1601

The Virgin, Queen of Heaven is an ink drawing by the Baroque artist Francesco Vanni. It dates from 1601 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

The Virgin, Queen of Heaven is a drawing created by Francesco Vanni in 1601. It is executed in pen and brown ink with brown and gray wash on laid paper.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts the Virgin Mary surrounded by angels and other figures in a celestial setting, conveying a sense of reverence and contemplation. The scene is centered on the Virgin, emphasizing her importance.

Technique & Style

Vanni's use of pen and ink achieves a delicate, precise effect, while the brown and gray washes add warmth and texture. The interplay of light and shadow creates a sense of volume and depth, drawing attention to the central figure.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Francesco Vanni

Artist

Francesco Vanni

Francesco Vanni (1563 – 26 October 1610) was an Italian painter, draughtsman, printmaker, publisher and printer active in Rome and his native city of Siena.

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