The Naming of the Virgin Mary c. 1690

"The Naming of the Virgin Mary" is a drawing created by the Italian Baroque artist Marcantonio Franceschini in 1690. The piece depicts the biblical scene of the naming of the Virgin Mary. It is a delicate work rendered in brown ink on paper, with a focus on the figures and their gestures. The image shows the priest holding a small, robed child, symbolizing the Virgin Mary, and the child's parents kneeling in prayer. Above them, angels, putti, and God himself appear in the clouds, offering blessings. The drawing's composition and detailed figures showcase Franceschini's mastery of draftsmanship. His style is characterized by its graceful lines, dramatic contrasts, and strong sense of movement. This artwork is a fine example of a Baroque drawing and a testament to Franceschini's talent.