Studies of Architectural Moldings, of the Virgin and Child with a Kneeling Saint, and of Two Angels Supporting Frames (recto); Studies for Architectural Mouldings (verso) 1611 - 1689

Baldassarre Franceschini, or Il Volterrano as he was known, made this drawing of pen and brown ink with red chalk sometime in the 17th century. Franceschini was working in Florence at a time when the Catholic Church was reasserting its power, and art became a key tool for conveying religious messages. Here, amidst studies of architectural moldings, we see the Virgin and Child with a kneeling saint, and two angels supporting frames. Think about the role of the Virgin Mary in society at this time. She was the ultimate symbol of motherhood, purity and piety, yet her image was also used to reinforce the power of the Church and the patriarchy. These figures would adorn the walls and ceilings of Baroque churches and palaces, immersing viewers in a world of divine splendor. What feelings are conjured when observing this drawing? Is it one of awe, reverence, or perhaps a sense of the Church's imposing power? The drawing invites us to reflect on the complex interplay between faith, power, and artistic expression in Baroque Italy.