Saint Luke Painting the Virgin 1750 - 1760

Georg Anton Urlaub’s pen and brown ink drawing depicts Saint Luke painting the Virgin Mary. The drawing was created sometime between 1750-1760. It is a depiction of the traditional patron saint of painters, Saint Luke, working at his easel with an ox at his feet. The drawing, now in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, exemplifies the artistic practices of the 18th century, showcasing the skill of drawing and the reverence for biblical figures. The artist’s use of chiaroscuro adds depth and dimensionality to the figures and creates a sense of realism.