Madonna Seated on Clouds and Sketch of Angel's Wing n.d.

This anonymous drawing from the Art Institute of Chicago depicts the Madonna seated on a cloud and reaching out with her right hand. The artist's use of red chalk, black chalk, and white heightening gives the drawing a sense of volume and detail, particularly in the drapery and the sketch of an angel's wing in the bottom right corner. The drawing is a study for a larger painting, and it shows the artist's careful planning and attention to detail. The drawing is a beautiful example of the artistic practice of using preparatory studies to create a finished work of art.