Bishop Blessing a Kneeling Man OR Meeting of Emperor Theodosius and Bishop Ambrose by Luigi Benfatto

Bishop Blessing a Kneeling Man OR Meeting of Emperor Theodosius and Bishop Ambrose c. 1600

drawing, print, paper, ink, graphite

drawing

toned paper

ink painting

print

pencil sketch

etching

possibly oil pastel

paper

ink

fluid art

underpainting

detailed observational sketch

water

graphite

italy

mixed medium

watercolor

This pen and ink drawing, "Bishop Blessing a Kneeling Man OR Meeting of Emperor Theodosius and Bishop Ambrose," by Italian artist Luigi Benfatto (1544–1609) depicts a historical event. The work, likely a preparatory study for a larger composition, captures the moment when the Emperor Theodosius, kneeling, seeks forgiveness from Bishop Ambrose. Benfatto masterfully utilizes hatching and cross-hatching to render the figures and their flowing garments. The scene is set within a grand architectural structure, hinting at the power dynamics at play. The Art Institute of Chicago's collection holds this captivating artwork, showcasing the masterful drawing skills of Benfatto.