Study of St Anne, Mary and the Christ Child 1503

This is a study by Leonardo da Vinci for his famous painting "The Virgin and Child with St. Anne". Created in 1503, this small, preliminary drawing uses black chalk to capture the composition and figure studies, including the drapery, for the final painting. It is now housed in the Louvre, Paris. The drawing demonstrates da Vinci's meticulous approach to composition and his mastery of light and shadow, creating a sense of depth and volume in his figures. This study is an important piece in understanding the development of da Vinci's most iconic artwork.