Study of Santa Rosalia of Palermo 1659 - 1664

Ciro Ferri made this drawing of Santa Rosalia of Palermo using graphite on paper. Here, the artist has harnessed the qualities inherent to graphite - its softness and subtle sheen - to capture the gentle essence of the Saint. The drawing is a study; a preparatory sketch for a larger work. The medium of graphite allows for rapid mark-making, seen here in the many lines that define and refine the form. Ferri's skillful use of shading and hatching brings depth to the figure, while the quick, loose strokes in the background create a sense of movement and dynamism. Drawings like this one were instrumental in the creation of the monumental artworks of the Baroque era. They represent a significant amount of labor, and often involved the work of assistants and apprentices. Ultimately, understanding the material and process allows us to appreciate not only the final image but also the broader context of artistic production in Ferri's time.