St. Dominic 

Albrecht Dürer rendered this portrait of St. Dominic in 1506, using the simple materials of paper and black ink. But don't be fooled by this apparent simplicity; Dürer’s mastery is evident in the detailed linework, which gives volume to the figure's robes and face. The use of hatching and cross-hatching to create a sense of depth and shadow speaks to Dürer’s training as a printmaker, a process that demanded precision and control. Although drawing might seem like a basic, immediate form of art making, in Dürer’s time, it was a highly valued skill. His ability to capture the likeness and character of St. Dominic through the controlled application of ink demonstrates the importance of technical skill. This elevates the craft of drawing to the level of fine art.