Een gesluierde vrouw met een rozenkrans in haar hand c. 1739 - 1804

Pietro Antonio Novelli III created this small drawing of a veiled woman with a rosary, using pen and brush, likely in the late 18th century. The artist's hand is evident in every line, from the delicate shading of the veil to the quick, assured strokes defining her clothing. Novelli’s choice of pen and brush allows for a remarkable range of tonal variation, lending the figure depth and presence on the page. The marks are varied in thickness, reflecting the pressure exerted by the artist’s hand, giving the drawing a lively, spontaneous quality. Beyond its aesthetic qualities, this work offers a glimpse into the social fabric of its time. The woman's attire and rosary beads suggest a life steeped in religious tradition and perhaps limited economic means. In rendering her likeness with such care, Novelli elevates the everyday, transforming a humble subject into an object of contemplation. Ultimately, the drawing reminds us that even the simplest of materials, when wielded with skill and sensitivity, can transcend the boundaries between art and life, offering profound insights into the human condition.