Design for a Spandrel: A Roman Martyr and Two Putti–Saint Jude the Apostle 1573 - 1575

Livio Agresti's "Design for a Spandrel: A Roman Martyr and Two Putti–Saint Jude the Apostle" is a pen and wash drawing on paper dated between 1573-1575. This preparatory design shows Saint Jude the Apostle, a Roman martyr, seated with a large axe and a winged putti, both within an architectural framework. The drawing's design is intended for a spandrel, a triangular space often found in architecture between an arch and the surrounding structure. This design reflects the Renaissance practice of using drawings to plan for larger decorative projects. The depiction of the saint, a putti, and the architectural setting provides an intricate and balanced composition. The work is part of The Art Institute of Chicago's permanent collection.