Angel (Recto); Fragmentary Sketches of Same Subject (Verso) 1500 - 1600

This anonymous red chalk drawing, "Angel (Recto); Fragmentary Sketches of Same Subject (Verso)," from the Metropolitan Museum of Art, depicts a winged figure in a dynamic pose. The artist's loose, gestural lines suggest the fleeting movement of the angel, capturing its energetic form in a study that is both expressive and insightful. The piece is representative of the artistic trends of the 16th century, when anatomical study and the representation of motion were key concerns for artists. This work showcases the artist's exploration of the human form and the power of line to evoke a sense of movement and dynamism.